1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 3,221 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 201 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 630 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
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 E (500 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 3221 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1885 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 | 51 L | 80 L |
