1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1988 Renault Espace
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault Espace would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1988 Renault Espace. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1988 Renault Espace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Renault Espace, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault Espace. (158 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault Espace. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Renault Espace has manual transmission. 1988 Renault Espace will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1988 Renault Espace | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | Z3 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 68 L |
