1996 BMW 528 vs. 2003 BMW Z8
To start off, 2003 BMW Z8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 528 would be higher. At 4,939 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW Z8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW Z8 (400 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1996 BMW 528. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW Z8 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 528. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 528 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2003 BMW Z8.
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, 2003 BMW Z8 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 528. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2003 BMW Z8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 528. 1996 BMW 528 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW Z8 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW Z8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW 528 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 528 | 2003 BMW Z8 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 528 | Z8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 4939 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 73 L |
