1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2007 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2007 Toyota Prius 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2007 Toyota Prius. (110 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Toyota Prius weights approximately 45 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
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 Toyota Prius, 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Toyota Prius. (111 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Toyota Prius.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2007 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | Z3 | Prius |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 45 L |
