2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 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 3,496 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 40 more horse power than 2002 BMW Z3. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 385 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW Z3. (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | C | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 51 L |
