1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 BMW M3 (320 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (280 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
