1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan 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 2,000 cc, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 164 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 Volkswagen Sharan, 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 Sharan (350 Nm) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2012 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1794 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1904 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2919 mm |
