1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1999 Buick Century
To start off, 1999 Buick Century 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 3,134 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Buick Century (165 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1999 Buick Century.
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, 1999 Buick Century, 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, 1999 Buick Century (251 Nm) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 1999 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1999 Buick Century 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. 1999 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1999 Buick Century | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | Z3 | Century |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 3134 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |
