2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (220 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (265 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z4 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2720 mm |
