2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 530 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z4 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
