2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 145 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 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2012 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
