1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Sharan 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Sharan (201 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 450 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.
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 Volkswagen Sharan, 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Sharan. (265 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Sharan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2007 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1752 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |
