1999 BMW 318 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 1999 BMW 318 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 232 kg more than 1999 BMW 318. 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, 1999 BMW 318 (200 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1999 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 186 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1398 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
