2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (121 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 155 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3.
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, 2001 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | C | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 51 L |
