1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2000 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 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 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2000 Volkswagen Golf. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 372 kg more than 2000 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2000 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2000 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2000 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2000 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2000 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 2000 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | Z3 | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 2000 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1897 cc | 1981 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 141 HP | 99 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 240 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 184 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1258 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |