1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 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 12 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 78 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen T5. 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 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | Z3 | T5 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2459 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 184 HP | 172 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1224 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1980 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1910 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3010 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 80 L |