1991 Ford Taurus vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 BMW Z3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,512 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1991 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Ford Taurus weights approximately 14 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Ford Taurus, 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Taurus | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Taurus | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2512 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2450 mm |
