1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1985 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 54 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
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 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Pontiac Firebird. (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 1985 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | Z3 | Firebird |
Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2827 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 184 HP | 133 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 75.9 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1356 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1270 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2740 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 60 L |