2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,264 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 440 kg more than 2012 BMW Z4.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | S | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4264 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 55 L |
