1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 8 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 63 L |
