1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2003 Donkervoort D8
To start off, 2003 Donkervoort D8 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 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Donkervoort D8 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 1000 kg more than 2003 Donkervoort D8.
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 Donkervoort D8 (210 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2003 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2003 Donkervoort D8 | |
| Make | BMW | Donkervoort |
| Model | Z3 | D8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2310 mm |
