2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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 5,460 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2008 BMW Z4. (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z4 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3248 cc | 5460 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
