1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1992 Opel Frontera
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Opel Frontera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Opel Frontera 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 86 more horse power than 1992 Opel Frontera. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1992 Opel Frontera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Opel Frontera weights approximately 389 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 1992 Opel Frontera is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Opel Frontera will offer significantly more control. 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 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Opel Frontera. (170 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Opel Frontera. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1992 Opel Frontera has manual transmission. 1992 Opel Frontera 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 | 1992 Opel Frontera | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | Z3 | Frontera |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1644 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 75 L |
