2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2001 BMW Z3. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 240 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (301 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW Z3. (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | C | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2489 cc |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.1 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 51 L |
