2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 4 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 3,248 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. (254 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz S.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z4 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3248 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 5226 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
