1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1996 Acura RL
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1996 Acura RL. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Acura RL weights approximately 280 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Acura RL, 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Acura RL. (304 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Acura RL. 1996 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1996 Acura RL | |
| Make | BMW | Acura |
| Model | Z3 | RL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| 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 | 1395 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2920 mm |
