2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (261 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2009 BMW Z4. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 336 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (405 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW Z4. (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z4 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 405 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1626 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2950 mm |
