1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1980 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1980 Pontiac Firebird.
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, 1980 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm) has 279 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 1980 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1980 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | Z3 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2750 mm |
