1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 105 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 Weight | 1630 kg | 1735 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
