1991 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 120 kg more than 2002 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1991 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1991 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz S | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | S | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2598 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2450 mm |
