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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado (332 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 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. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado weights approximately 6 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 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 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, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado (498 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
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 | 2926 cc | 5999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 332 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 498 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 98 L |
