1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1990 Chrysler Viper
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Chrysler Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Chrysler Viper would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1990 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 335 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. 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, 1990 Chrysler Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 345 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1990 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1990 Chrysler Viper has manual transmission. 1990 Chrysler Viper 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 | 1990 Chrysler Viper | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | Z3 | Viper |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 7986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2450 mm |
