1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP) has 225 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 647 kg more than 1997 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, 1997 BMW Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | Viano |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 2146 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 157 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 75 L |
