1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2002 Pontiac Montana
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Montana is newer by 6 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 3,390 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Montana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Montana. (185 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Montana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Montana weights approximately 465 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, 2002 Pontiac Montana, 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, 2002 Pontiac Montana (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2002 Pontiac Montana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2002 Pontiac Montana | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | Z3 | Montana |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 3390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 76 L |
