1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 4,921 cc (10 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (308 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1234 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 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 475 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 4921 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 308 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 750 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 2489 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 90 L |
