1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 266 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
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 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | Z3 | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1521 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4246 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1782 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1423 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |