Abstract: A sliding element, such as a bearing, and a method of manufacturing the sliding element, is provided. The sliding element is formed of an aluminum alloy material which includes zinc in an amount of 5 wt. % to 83 wt. %. The sliding element may also include silicon and/or magnesium. The sliding element is typically formed by casting, heat treating at a temperature of 400° C. to 577° C., and cooling at a rate of less than 50° C. per hour to a temperature ranging from 400° C. to 200° C. The aluminum alloy material is then heat treated at a temperature of 100° to 275° C. for at least 5 hours to form a soft phase consisting essentially of the zinc. The second heat treatment, or possibly both heat treatments, may not be required when the aluminum alloy material includes the magnesium.