2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz G
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 G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz G 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 121 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz G. (217 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 665 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz G. (300 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz G. 1996 Mercedes-Benz G has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2008 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:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z4 | G |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 2150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2860 mm |
