2010 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 BMW Z4
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP) has 437 more horse power than 2004 BMW Z4. (168 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1505 kg more than 2004 BMW Z4. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm) has 790 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW Z4. (210 Nm). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW Z4. 2004 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2010 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 605 HP | 168 HP |
| Torque | 1000 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 16.8 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
