1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 9 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), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 185 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS (460 Nm) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| 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 | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
