1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1959 Steyr 500D
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Steyr 500D. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Steyr 500D 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 122 more horse power than 1959 Steyr 500D. (19 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1959 Steyr 500D. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 1150 kg more than 1959 Steyr 500D. 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 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Steyr 500D. (32 Nm). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Steyr 500D.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1959 Steyr 500D | |
| Make | BMW | Steyr |
| Model | Z3 | 500D |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1959 |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 19 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 32 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 2970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1330 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 1850 mm |
