1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 15 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (156 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| 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 | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 66 L |
