1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 Saturn Vue
To start off, 2006 Saturn Vue 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 3,474 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Saturn Vue is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn Vue (250 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn Vue should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn Vue weights approximately 691 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 Saturn Vue, 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 Saturn Vue (328 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn Vue will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2006 Saturn Vue | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | Z3 | Vue |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 3474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 328 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1946 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 61 L |
