2006 BMW Z4 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz G (217 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2006 BMW Z4. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 815 kg more than 2006 BMW Z4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz G (300 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW Z4. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW Z4. 1996 Mercedes-Benz G has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz G will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z4 | G |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 2150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2860 mm |
