2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (343 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2008 BMW Z4. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 386 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (480 Nm) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (250 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z4 | E |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 343 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1676 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.5 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
