BMW Z4 3.0Si vs. Mercedes-Benz SLK350

For years, Mercedes-Benz and BMW have been playing a serious game of leapfrog in the roadster market, challenging one another with each new model. The Z4 was a huge improvement on the dowdy Z3, which was not much better than a Mazda Miata -- and uglier, too. Currently, the SLK350 outguns the Z4 slightly, but it costs a lot more at the dealership and at the pump.

Simply put, the Z4 is a better value. Its toothy, shark-like grin can't be beat for looks, either. BMW further upped the ante with a high-power M version of the Z4, which rides on 330 horses and gets to 60 in 4.9 seconds. That extra power comes at a ballooned cost, though. Count on adding an extra 20 grand for the upgrades.

Advantage: BMW Z4 3.0Si

>>>>>>>>>BMW Z4 3.0Si-----MB SLK350<<<<<<
Base Price -----------$42,100 -------- $47,725
Engine ---------------3L V6 ----------- 3.5L V6
Output (HP)------------255 ------------268
0-60 MPH -------------5.6 ------------5.4
Fuel (City/Highway)---20/30 ---------18/25
TCO ------------------$65,981---------$75,303







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BMW 325i vs. Mercedes-Benz C230 Sport

BMW pleased die-hard fans and auto industry insiders alike when it took the wraps off the new 3-Series. The design retains the aggressive exterior posture of previous generations. And its 215 horses feel and sound just right, continuing the 3's legacy as the archetypal small sports sedan.

Although the C230 Sport is a worthy alternative on the interior amenity front (where it one-ups the 3 considerably), it just can't keep up on the road.

Advantage: BMW 325i

>>>>>>>>>BMW 325i------MB C230 Sport<<<<<<<
Base Price------------$30,900----$29,975
Engine ---------------3.0L V6 ----2.5L V6
Output (HP) ---------215 ---------201
0-60 MPH -----------6.7 ---------8
Fuel (City/Highway) -20/30 -----21/30
TCO -----------------$55,640----$57,830

READ MORE - BMW 325i vs. Mercedes-Benz C230 Sport