2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | C | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2147 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
