1999 BMW Z8 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1999 BMW Z8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 4,939 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z8 (400 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (185 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 465 kg more than 1999 BMW Z8.
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, 1999 BMW Z8 (500 Nm) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (271 Nm). This means 1999 BMW Z8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW Z8 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW Z8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW Z8 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z8 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4939 cc | 2293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 400 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 2050 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2810 mm |
