1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 431 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Z3 | C |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 221 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 510 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 244 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1686 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 62 L |