1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2008 Ford Mondeo
To start off, 2008 Ford Mondeo 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Mondeo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2008 Ford Mondeo. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Mondeo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 146 kg more than 2008 Ford Mondeo. 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, 2008 Ford Mondeo, 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 Mondeo (280 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2008 Ford Mondeo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2008 Ford Mondeo has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Mondeo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2008 Ford Mondeo | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Mondeo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 197 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1484 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 59 L |
