1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2005 BMW M3
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 9 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 270 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.
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, 2005 BMW M3 (330 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2005 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1572 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 63 L |
