1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (303 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 265 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2002 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Z3 | S |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1897 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 141 HP | 303 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 460 Nm |
Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1895 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |