1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2001 Ford Mondeo
To start off, 2001 Ford Mondeo is newer by 5 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2001 Ford Mondeo. (122 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Mondeo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 108 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
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, 2001 Ford Mondeo, 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Mondeo. (183 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Mondeo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2001 Ford Mondeo | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Mondeo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 56 L |
