1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1998 Porsche 911
To start off, 1998 Porsche 911 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 3,387 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Porsche 911 (296 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1998 Porsche 911.
Because 1998 Porsche 911 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Porsche 911 will offer significantly more control. 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 Porsche 911 (350 Nm) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 1998 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1998 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | Z3 | 911 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 3387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 280 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
