1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 Porsche 911
To start off, 2006 Porsche 911 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 3,818 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Porsche 911 (355 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2006 Porsche 911.
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 Porsche 911 (400 Nm) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2006 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2006 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | Z3 | 911 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
