1988 BMW Z1 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 270 kg more than 1988 BMW Z1.
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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (316 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW Z1. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW Z1 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Z1 | C |
Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2148 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 141 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 316 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 88.3 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1520 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |