1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. (295 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 636 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (385 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW Z3. (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW Z3. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW Z3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Z3 | S |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3245 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 333 HP | 295 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 385 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 2029 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5245 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1872 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1473 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3165 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 90 L |