1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 30 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
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, 1998 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (271 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
