Z3 or SLK

6SpeedBowtie · 08-12-04, 02:39

So here's the deal.

The folks are have decided they want a 2-seat roadster, and have narrowed the field to either the BMW Z-3, or a Mercedes SLK. Being the car nut that I am, I'm doing a load of research here and there to assist in their endeavor.

I've noticed there are more used Z3's available than SLK's, and perhaps as a result, the Z3 is roughly $7k cheaper than the SLK.

So, the question is, if buying a 2001 model, which would you choose and why?

Just thought I'd throw this out there and see if anyone on the board has any experience with either of these autos.

Thanks,

MongooseGA · 08-12-04, 02:47

4 or 6 cylinders?

my parents looked at a 4 cylinder Z3 last week for my sister. i love bimmers,(especially over merc's) but the z3 in a 4 banger is just so...girly. needless to say they didnt buy it.

plus the SLK is a retractable hard top.

then again bimmers are normally more reliable than merc's.

IMO, i like the SLK more.

now the z4...

gnahc79 · 08-12-04, 02:59

What are the folks going to use the car for?

me, I'm partial to the SLK (pic from my first detailing job)

Griz · 08-13-04, 02:44

alright i'll give this another try since i clumsily knocked the power button right before i was going to send the last message.

i'm partial to BMW. i won't try to brainwash you, but i can give you a few leads on where to start looking for bimmers.

roadfly is a good place to start, they have a wide selection of cars across the country. a majority of the owners are fanatics, so the cars are often in excellent shape.

Z3 (and M) roadster listings

roadfly also lists MB's but the pickings are slim.

i'd also suggest going to some independent BMW shops, they'll likely have Roundel, which is the magazine for BMW CCA. the classifieds in the back are a good source... in fact, if you know exactly what you're looking for, i can look through the last issue for you. even so it'll be good to become familiar with the independent shops around you to get the vehicle inspected before you purchase.

jason

KevinA · 08-13-04, 06:29

My wife and I are partial to the Z3. We like the styling on those better than the SLK.

I do like the folding hard top on the SLK, but it wouldn't sway us to buy one.

Keep us posted on the search and choice.

kartoon · 08-13-04, 06:40

I voted for the Z3. They are both nice rides but the SLK seems more of a "cute" car. Z3 projects the image of a driver's car and I think it really is.

albailey · 08-13-04, 04:50

if they intend to do any overnight trips (as retired/older folks are often inclined to do

) be sure to check the trunk capacities - neither is very much, but i seem to remember reading that if you want to travel in the slk with the top down, expect to buy a new toothbrush at your destination!

Quacker · 08-13-04, 06:04

They're both "cute" cars. Personally, if I were to buy a roadster in this price range, I'd get an S2000. Fast, reliable, awesome gearbox, great handling, and pretty decent trunk space. If it's just between these two, though, I'd opt for the Z3 w/ the 6 cylinder or the M-Coupe. My theory on Mercedes is that it's no good unless it's got 8 cylinders under the hood.

6SpeedBowtie · 08-16-04, 06:49

Thanks to everyone for their input and votes.

While I was home over the weekend visiting with my parents, I took a few minutes and introduced my dad to Autopia. Showed him some of the transformations and details in "Click and Brag" and even showed him this thread and the comments you all had.

He appreciated the thoughts and comments from various standpoints.

To answer a few Q's:

- They're planning on using the car as a bit of a toy / summer transportation. They plan on parking their Volvo XC70 for the most part during the summer months in favor of the new toy.

I'd expect more than a few overnighters with the car, and a fair amount of travel on the twisties as they live in the WV mountains.

Thanks again for the input, and I'll be sure to let everyone know what they end up with. (Right now I think they're leaning toward a Z3).

Mosca · 08-16-04, 07:01

Quote:

Originally posted by 6SpeedBowtie
I'd expect more than a few overnighters with the car, and a fair amount of travel on the twisties as they live in the WV mountains.

Then go with the Z3 and don't look back. The Benz won't cut it here. If it weren't for the "overnighters" part, I too would recommend the S2000 over either of those; it's a much better sports car than the BMW. Even a Miata is a better sports car (notice, I didn't say "better car") than the M3.

Heck, have them look at a new Mazdaspeed MX5. More than one shopper has fallen in love with them.

Tom

bet993 · 08-17-04, 01:20

I know it wasn't mentioned as a possibility but just another thought....Boxster. A 2000 Boxster could be had in the price range of a 2001 SLK. The Boxster has much more storage space than any of the roadsters mentioned (two trunks for those that don't know front and back). Much better handling than the Z3 or the SLK yet a nice ride for long trips. Just a thought.

hirosh · 08-17-04, 01:25

if twisties are involved, definitely the bimmer. come on, this is by the company whose saying is: the ultimate driving machine.