1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1980 Ferrari 208
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ferrari 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ferrari 208 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Ferrari 208 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Ferrari 208 (153 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Ferrari 208 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1980 Ferrari 208.
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 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ferrari 208. (171 Nm). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ferrari 208.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1980 Ferrari 208 | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | Z3 | 208 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2350 mm |
