1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2005 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2005 Ford Taurus 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 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2005 Ford Taurus. (153 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Taurus weights approximately 20 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, 2005 Ford Taurus, 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 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Taurus. (251 Nm). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2005 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 68 L |
