1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1976 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 195 kg more than 1996 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1976 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | Z3 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 108 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2750 mm |
