1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1998 Ferrari 456M
To start off, 1998 Ferrari 456M 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 5,474 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Ferrari 456M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ferrari 456M (435 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 294 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ferrari 456M should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ferrari 456M weights approximately 60 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 Ferrari 456M (550 Nm) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 1998 Ferrari 456M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1998 Ferrari 456M 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. 1998 Ferrari 456M will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1998 Ferrari 456M | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | Z3 | 456M |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 5474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 435 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 110 L |
