1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 12 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 140 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (316 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
