1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 12 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 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 115 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (509 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW Z3 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Z3 | SLK |
Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2793 cc | 5400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 191 HP | 355 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 509 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1575 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4102 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1793 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1270 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2431 mm |