1975 BMW 316 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1975 BMW 316. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1975 BMW 316. 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (180 Nm) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 316. (124 Nm). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 BMW 316 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 63 L |
