1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2010 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 14 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 680 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Volkswagen T5 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, 2010 Volkswagen T5 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, 2010 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2010 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 | 2010 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 184 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 2310 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 | 63 L | 80 L |
