1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette
To start off, 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette 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 3,350 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 184 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette weights approximately 443 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, 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette, 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, 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette 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 Oldsmobile Silhouette will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Z3 | Silhouette |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 3350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2850 mm |
