1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Ford Edge
To start off, 2012 Ford Edge 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Edge is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Edge (305 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Edge should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Edge weights approximately 691 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 1996 BMW Z3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Edge, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Ford Edge (379 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Edge will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2012 Ford Edge | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Edge |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1946 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4679 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1702 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2824 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 68 L |
