1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Polo. (79 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 468 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Polo. 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 Volkswagen Polo, 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 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2006 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2006 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
