1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2006 Ford S-Max 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, 2006 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford S-Max weights approximately 426 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 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 S-Max, 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, 2006 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2006 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2006 Ford S-Max has manual transmission. 2006 Ford S-Max will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 2006 Ford S-Max | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | Z3 | S-Max |
Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2521 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 217 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93.2 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1681 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1660 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |