1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 250 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G (193 Nm) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 1981 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1981 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | G |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
