1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 Buick Rainier
To start off, 2006 Buick Rainier 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 4,194 cc, 2006 Buick Rainier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Buick Rainier (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Buick Rainier should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 2006 Buick Rainier 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 Buick Rainier 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 Buick Rainier (376 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2006 Buick Rainier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2006 Buick Rainier has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Buick Rainier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2006 Buick Rainier | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | Z3 | Rainier |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 4194 cc |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 376 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 102 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1900 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 83 L |
