2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 326 more horse power than 2001 BMW Z3. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 569 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 490 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW Z3. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
Model | SL | Z3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2171 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 700 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1386 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 51 L |