1999 Honda Z vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Honda Z would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 442 more horse power than 1999 Honda Z. (51 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1065 kg more than 1999 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Honda Z, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 740 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Honda Z. (60 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Honda Z. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 Honda Z has manual transmission. 1999 Honda Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Honda Z | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 654 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 2025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 80 L |
