1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2000 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2000 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 5,784 cc (12 cylinders), 2000 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mercedes-Benz S (361 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 688 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2000 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2000 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2000 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 2000 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Z3 | S |
Year Released | 1996 | 2000 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2793 cc | 5784 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 184 HP | 361 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 6160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 4090 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 88 L |