1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1999 BMW Z3
To start off, 1999 BMW Z3 is newer by 3 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1999 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, 1999 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 1999 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1999 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2450 mm |
