1997 BMW Z3 vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112
To start off, 1997 BMW Z3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 (402 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1997 BMW Z3. (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 weights approximately 157 kg more than 1997 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 (580 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW Z3. (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | C 112 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 307 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 100 L |
