1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 11 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1997 BMW Z3. (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW Z3. (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW Z3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW Z3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Z3 | CLS |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3245 cc | 5461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 333 HP | 382 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 531 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4910 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 80 L |