1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2007 Porsche 911
To start off, 2007 Porsche 911 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 3,605 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Porsche 911 (481 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 280 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 2007 Porsche 911 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Porsche 911 will offer significantly more control. 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 Porsche 911 (624 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 349 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2007 Porsche 911 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 Porsche 911 has manual transmission. 2007 Porsche 911 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 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | Z3 | 911 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 3605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 481 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 624 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 76 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 67 L |
