1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1997 Peugeot 406
To start off, 1997 Peugeot 406 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1997 Peugeot 406. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
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, 1997 Peugeot 406, 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 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Peugeot 406. (136 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Peugeot 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1997 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | BMW | Peugeot |
| Model | Z3 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1437 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
