1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2008 Tesla Roadster
To start off, 2008 Tesla Roadster 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. In terms of performance, 2008 Tesla Roadster (288 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Tesla Roadster should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2008 Tesla Roadster.
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 Tesla Roadster (370 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm). This means 2008 Tesla Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2008 Tesla Roadster | |
| Make | BMW | Tesla |
| Model | Z3 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Electric |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Single Speed |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3947 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1128 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2352 mm |
