1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2004 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2004 Opel Zafira 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 101 more horse power than 2004 Opel Zafira. (100 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Zafira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Zafira weights approximately 230 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, 2004 Opel Zafira, 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 @ 3950 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Zafira. (220 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Zafira. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2004 Opel Zafira has manual transmission. 2004 Opel Zafira 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 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | Z3 | Zafira |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 58 L |
