1996 BMW 540 vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,396 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2002 BMW Z3. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 459 kg more than 2002 BMW Z3. 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 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW Z3. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 540 | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 540 | Z3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4396 cc | 2171 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 440 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1386 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |