1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2005 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2005 Skoda Octavia 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2005 Skoda Octavia. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 53 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 Skoda Octavia, 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 Skoda Octavia (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2005 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2005 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | BMW | Skoda |
| Model | Z3 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2580 mm |
