1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1997 Toyota Avensis
To start off, 1997 Toyota Avensis 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 75 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Avensis. (109 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Avensis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 102 kg more than 1997 Toyota Avensis. 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, 1997 Toyota Avensis, 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 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Avensis. (155 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Avensis. 1997 Toyota Avensis has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Toyota Avensis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1997 Toyota Avensis | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | Z3 | Avensis |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1762 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 60 L |
