1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2011 Porsche Cayman
To start off, 2011 Porsche Cayman 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Porsche Cayman (265 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Porsche Cayman should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Porsche Cayman weights approximately 75 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.
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 Porsche Cayman (299 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2011 Porsche Cayman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2011 Porsche Cayman has manual transmission. 2011 Porsche Cayman will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2011 Porsche Cayman | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | Z3 | Cayman |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4376 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1303 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2416 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 64 L |
