2001 BMW Z9 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z9. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z9 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z9 (286 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. (268 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z9 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 210 kg more than 2001 BMW Z9.
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, 2001 BMW Z9 (597 Nm) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. (350 Nm). This means 2001 BMW Z9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW Z9 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z9 | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4400 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 597 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
