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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (254 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2008 BMW Z4. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (250 Nm @ 2750 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 | 2496 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 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 | 4100 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 |
