1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado (295 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 81 kg more than 2012 Chevrolet Silverado.
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 Chevrolet Silverado (414 Nm) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2012 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 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 Chevrolet Silverado will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2012 Chevrolet Silverado | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | Z3 | Silverado |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 4800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 414 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1549 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 6340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 4010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 129 L |
