1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 14 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 170 kg more than 2012 BMW Z4.
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, 2012 BMW Z4 (406 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
Model | SL | Z4 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2797 cc | 3000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 300 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 406 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1400 RPM |
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 | 1760 kg | 1590 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4239 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1791 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2497 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |