1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Aston Martin DBS
To start off, 2012 Aston Martin DBS is newer by 16 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 5,900 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Aston Martin DBS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Aston Martin DBS (510 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 369 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Aston Martin DBS should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Aston Martin DBS weights approximately 180 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, 2012 Aston Martin DBS (569 Nm) has 389 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2012 Aston Martin DBS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2012 Aston Martin DBS | |
| Make | BMW | Aston Martin |
| Model | Z3 | DBS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 5900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 569 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4719 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1905 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2741 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
