1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2007 BMW 525
To start off, 2007 BMW 525 is newer by 11 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 525 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 525 weights approximately 122 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, 2007 BMW 525 (400 Nm) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2007 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2007 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1752 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
