2003 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,488 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 165 kg more than 2002 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (315 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW Z3. (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW Z3. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | C | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 51 L |
