1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Nissan 370Z
To start off, 2009 Nissan 370Z 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 3,699 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan 370Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan 370Z (332 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan 370Z should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 76 kg more than 2009 Nissan 370Z.
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 Nissan 370Z (366 Nm) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2009 Nissan 370Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2009 Nissan 370Z | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | Z3 | 370Z |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 3699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 332 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1554 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 72 L |
