1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2004 Peugeot 407
To start off, 2004 Peugeot 407 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2004 Peugeot 407. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Peugeot 407. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Peugeot 407 weights approximately 278 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 Peugeot 407, 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, 2004 Peugeot 407 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2004 Peugeot 407 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2004 Peugeot 407 | |
| Make | BMW | Peugeot |
| Model | Z3 | 407 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 66 L |
