1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30. (227 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1998 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 (540 Nm) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (320 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
