1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 BMW Z3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 2001 BMW Z3. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 705 kg more than 2001 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW Z3. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW Z3. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 51 L |
