1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo 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 97 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (104 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 167 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. 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 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (175 Nm @ 1550 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Polo 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 Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1088 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2470 mm |
