1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Touareg
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Touareg is newer by 14 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 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Touareg. (225 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Touareg. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Touareg weights approximately 863 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
Because 2011 Volkswagen Touareg 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, 2011 Volkswagen Touareg 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, 2011 Volkswagen Touareg (550 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW Z3. (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Touareg will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW Z3. 2011 Volkswagen Touareg 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. 2011 Volkswagen Touareg will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2011 Volkswagen Touareg | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Touareg |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 2256 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4796 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1941 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1732 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2893 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 100 L |
