1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1988 Pontiac Fiero
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Fiero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Fiero would be higher. At 2,826 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Fiero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Fiero. (143 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Fiero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 52 kg more than 1988 Pontiac Fiero. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Pontiac Fiero. (220 Nm). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Pontiac Fiero.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1988 Pontiac Fiero | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | Z3 | Fiero |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2826 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2380 mm |
