1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1997 Panoz AIV
To start off, 1997 Panoz AIV is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Panoz AIV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Panoz AIV (302 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Panoz AIV should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1997 Panoz AIV.
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, 1997 Panoz AIV (407 Nm) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 1997 Panoz AIV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1997 Panoz AIV | |
| Make | BMW | Panoz |
| Model | Z3 | AIV |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 407 Nm |
| 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 | 1630 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 59 L |
