1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Kia Sportage
To start off, 2009 Kia Sportage 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 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 11 more horse power than 2009 Kia Sportage. (173 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Sportage. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 17 kg more than 2009 Kia Sportage. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Kia Sportage, 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 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Sportage. (241 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Sportage. 2009 Kia Sportage 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 Kia Sportage will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2009 Kia Sportage | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | Z3 | Sportage |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2656 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 65 L |
