1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1983 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1983 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 625 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 1983 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, 1983 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mercedes-Benz G. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1983 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1983 Mercedes-Benz G will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1983 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | G |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 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 |
