1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 10 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 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2008 BMW Z4. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 480 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4. 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 (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
Model | SL | Z4 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3197 cc | 2497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 224 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 315 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2500 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |