1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 246 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.
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 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (127 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1390 cc |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 45 L |
