1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS (563 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 422 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 9 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS (649 Nm) has 469 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | SLS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 563 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 649 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1621 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4638 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1938 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 85 L |
