1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 65 kg more than 2002 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
Model | C | Z3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1797 cc | 2171 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 72 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1345 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 51 L |