1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1998 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 1998 Dodge Caravan 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 170 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, 1998 Dodge Caravan, 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 (180 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1998 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | Z3 | Caravan |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2880 mm |
