1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 12 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 @ 7500 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. (221 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 905 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW Z3. (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW Z3. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW Z3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Z3 | R |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3245 cc | 2987 cc |
Horse Power | 333 HP | 221 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 510 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 2298 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5180 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1930 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3220 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 80 L |