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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2008 Ford Mondeo. (128 HP @ 3800 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. 2008 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 262 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, 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 (330 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Mondeo 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 Mondeo | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Mondeo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1564 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 59 L |
