1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1979 GMC Jimmy
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 GMC Jimmy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 GMC Jimmy would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 GMC Jimmy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1979 GMC Jimmy. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1979 GMC Jimmy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 GMC Jimmy weights approximately 528 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 1979 GMC Jimmy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 GMC Jimmy will offer significantly more control. 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, 1979 GMC Jimmy (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1979 GMC Jimmy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1979 GMC Jimmy has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 GMC Jimmy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1979 GMC Jimmy | |
| Make | BMW | GMC |
| Model | Z3 | Jimmy |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
