1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2004 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2004 Nissan Sentra 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 36 more horse power than 2004 Nissan Sentra. (165 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 2 kg more than 2004 Nissan Sentra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Nissan Sentra, 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Nissan Sentra. (244 Nm). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Nissan Sentra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2004 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | Z3 | Sentra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1253 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 50 L |
