2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 265 more horse power than 2002 BMW Z3. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 521 kg more than 2002 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 399 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW Z3. (301 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1921 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 51 L |
