2003 BMW Z4 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 BMW Z4 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW Z4 (227 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 320 kg more than 2003 BMW Z4.
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, 2003 BMW Z4 (291 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW Z4 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Z4 | S |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2999 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 227 HP | 157 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.8 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2870 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 85 L |