2011 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2011 Mercedes-Benz B has manual transmission. 2011 Mercedes-Benz B will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mercedes-Benz B | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | B | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.2 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.2 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 51 L |
