1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 14 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (210 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 381 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.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW Z3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Z3 | E |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2793 cc | 3000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 191 HP | 210 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 542 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1841 kg |