2005 Mercury Mariner vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2005 Mercury Mariner 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercury Mariner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercury Mariner (200 HP) has 15 more horse power than 2002 BMW Z3. (185 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 144 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.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Mariner, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Mercury Mariner (262 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW Z3. (237 Nm). This means 2005 Mercury Mariner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercury Mariner | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mercury | BMW |
| Model | Mariner | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 185 HP |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1499 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 51 L |
