1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Touareg
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Touareg 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 3,595 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Touareg is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Touareg (280 HP) has 79 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Touareg should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 24 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Touareg.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Touareg is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Touareg will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Touareg (361 Nm) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen Touareg will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2008 Volkswagen Touareg | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Touareg |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 3595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 280 HP |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 361 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 100 L |
