1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2005 Mercury Montego
To start off, 2005 Mercury Montego 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 Mercury Montego is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercury Montego (203 HP) has 62 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Montego should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Montego weights approximately 26 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, 2005 Mercury Montego, 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, 2005 Mercury Montego (281 Nm) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2005 Mercury Montego will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2005 Mercury Montego | |
| Make | BMW | Mercury |
| Model | Z3 | Montego |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 203 HP |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1656 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 72 L |
