1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 BMW 530
To start off, 2006 BMW 530 is newer by 10 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 530 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 530 weights approximately 120 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 2006 BMW 530 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 BMW 530 (298 Nm) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2006 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2006 BMW 530 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | 530 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
