1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2004 Volvo S60
To start off, 2004 Volvo S60 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, 2004 Volvo S60 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S60 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. 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 Volvo S60, 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 Volvo S60 (340 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2004 Volvo S60 has manual transmission. 2004 Volvo S60 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 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z3 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |
