1997 BMW Z3 vs. 1996 Chevrolet Lumina
To start off, 1997 BMW Z3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Lumina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Lumina would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Lumina. (155 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Lumina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Lumina weights approximately 117 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina, 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, 1997 BMW Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Lumina. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Lumina. 1996 Chevrolet Lumina has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Lumina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW Z3 | 1996 Chevrolet Lumina | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | Z3 | Lumina |
Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3245 cc | 3135 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 333 HP | 155 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 89.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 84 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1510 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5110 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2740 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 56 L |