1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 90 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 E (240 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
