1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 17 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (357 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1123 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (550 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | GL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 357 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 2425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3075 mm |
