2005 BMW Z4 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 2005 BMW Z4. (141 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW Z4. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW Z4. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2005 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2005 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW Z4 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
