1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 10 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 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (303 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1090 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (700 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | GL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 2550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3080 mm |
