1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2003 Chevrolet SSR
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 7 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 5,316 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 524 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (449 Nm) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2003 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2003 Chevrolet SSR 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. 2003 Chevrolet SSR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2003 Chevrolet SSR | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | Z3 | SSR |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 5316 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 449 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 2154 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2950 mm |
