1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2008 Ford Expedition
To start off, 2008 Ford Expedition 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 5,408 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford Expedition is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Expedition (300 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Expedition should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 178 kg more than 2008 Ford Expedition.
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, 2008 Ford Expedition, 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, 2008 Ford Expedition (495 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Expedition will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2008 Ford Expedition | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Expedition |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 5408 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 495 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1970 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3030 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 106 L |
