1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2001 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2001 Ford Taurus 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 2,961 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Taurus (201 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Taurus weights approximately 203 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. 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, 2001 Ford Taurus, 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 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Taurus. (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Taurus. 2001 Ford Taurus 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. 2001 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2001 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2961 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| 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 | 1302 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 68 L |
