2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 2012 BMW Z4. (244 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 645 kg more than 2012 BMW Z4. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 451 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW Z4. (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW Z4. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | S | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 5.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 55 L |
