2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2012 BMW Z4. (244 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 358 kg more than 2012 BMW Z4. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW Z4. (350 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
