1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 640 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 T5, 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 T5 (251 Nm) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 T5 | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | Z3 | T5 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1897 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 141 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 251 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 159 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 2270 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1980 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1910 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3010 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |