1995 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1995 BMW Z3. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 218 kg more than 1995 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW Z3. (179 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
1995 BMW Z3 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | Z3 | GTI |
Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1894 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 179 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1393 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4213 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1501 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |