2006 BMW Z4 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (338 HP) has 204 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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, 2006 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z4 | 230 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
