2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 3 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (603 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 436 more horse power than 2002 BMW Z3. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 875 kg more than 2002 BMW Z3. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (998 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 788 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW Z3. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW Z3. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2002 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 2002 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | S | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 603 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 998 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2220 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 51 L |
