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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2012 BMW Z4. (182 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 330 kg more than 2012 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, both vehicles can yield 270 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW Z4 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 | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1480 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 |
