2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2001 BMW Z3. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 430 kg more than 2001 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (351 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW Z3. (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | C | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 351 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 51 L |
