1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 440 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.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will offer significantly more control. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 3498 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 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 62 L |
