2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2011 BMW Z4. (255 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW Z4. (298 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW Z4. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.2 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
