2000 BMW Z3 vs. 1996 Ford Ka
To start off, 2000 BMW Z3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ka would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z3 weights approximately 478 kg more than 1996 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Ford Ka, 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, 2000 BMW Z3 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2000 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka. 2000 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW Z3 | 1996 Ford Ka | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Ka |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 908 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 42 L |
