1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2006 Ford Mustang 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Mustang (300 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Mustang weights approximately 413 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Ford Mustang (434 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2006 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 61 L |
