2009 BMW Z4 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. (311 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW Z4. (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW Z4. 2010 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.2 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 |
