1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 2 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 70 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 143 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | Z3 | 318 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 184 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1445 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 63 L |