1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2005 Porsche 996
To start off, 2005 Porsche 996 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2005 Porsche 996. (317 HP @ 6800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Porsche 996. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Porsche 996 weights approximately 12 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
Because 2005 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Porsche 996 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW Z3. (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2005 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW Z3 | 2005 Porsche 996 | |
Make | BMW | Porsche |
Model | Z3 | 996 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 3245 cc | 3596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 333 HP | 317 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 370 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 96 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 82.8 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1405 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2360 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 64 L |