2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 11 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 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 448 kg more than 2009 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW Z4. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW Z4. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW Z4 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Z4 | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 73.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |