2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1999 BMW Z3
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,685 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1999 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 434 kg more than 1999 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW Z3. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1999 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | C | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2685 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 186 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2064 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 63 L |
