1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1996 Ford Taurus
To start off, both 1996 BMW Z3 and 1996 Ford Taurus were released in the same year (1996). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 3,400 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Taurus (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Taurus weights approximately 263 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.
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, 1996 Ford Taurus, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1996 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 3400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1518 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2760 mm |
