1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 BMW 320
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 13 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 105 kg more than 2009 BMW 320.
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, 2009 BMW 320 (350 Nm) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2009 BMW 320 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. 2009 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2009 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
