1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2011 BMW X5
To start off, 2011 BMW X5 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW X5 (265 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW X5 weights approximately 725 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 2011 BMW X5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW X5 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, 2011 BMW X5 (576 Nm) has 396 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2011 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2011 BMW X5 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 X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2011 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 2355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4857 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1933 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1776 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2934 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 85 L |
