2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. (268 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 340 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z4 | R |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3248 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
