1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 10 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 3,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 475 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Z3 | CLS |
Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2926 cc | 3495 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 268 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1730 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 89 L |