1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 15 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 146 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz R. (187 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW Z3. (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW Z3. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | R |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3216 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 80 L |
