2006 BMW Z4 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 275 kg more than 2006 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, 2006 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
2006 BMW Z4 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Z4 | SL |
Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2797 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 338 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 365 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |