1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 13 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1997 BMW Z3. (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 442 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW Z3. (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW Z3. 2010 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW Z3 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Z3 | CLS |
Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3245 cc | 5500 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 | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1835 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4917 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1872 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1415 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2855 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 80 L |