1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2007 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2007 Nissan 350Z 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 1 kg more than 2007 Nissan 350Z.
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, 2007 Nissan 350Z, 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, 2007 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2007 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2007 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2007 Nissan 350Z 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 | 2007 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | Z3 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1254 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 76 L |
