1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2006 Ford Fiesta 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP) has 101 more horse power than 2006 Ford Fiesta. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 147 kg more than 2006 Ford Fiesta. 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, 2006 Ford Fiesta, 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 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Fiesta. (146 Nm). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2006 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 184 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1108 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 45 L |
