1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2011 BMW 525
To start off, 2011 BMW 525 is newer by 15 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, 2011 BMW 525 (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3.
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, 2011 BMW 525 (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2011 BMW 525 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. 2011 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 2011 BMW 525 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | Z3 | 525 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 184 HP | 217 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 450 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4907 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1462 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2968 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |