1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 11 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz B. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 133 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mercedes-Benz B. (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | B |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 54 L |
