1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 BMW 640
To start off, 2012 BMW 640 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 640 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 640 (318 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 640 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 640 weights approximately 195 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 BMW 640 (450 Nm) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2012 BMW 640 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2012 BMW 640 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. 2012 BMW 640 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2012 BMW 640 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | 640 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 318 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5007 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1894 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
