1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 BMW Z3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 295 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3.
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, 2001 BMW Z3 (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
Model | S | Z3 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2489 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 157 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 74.9 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1315 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 51 L |