2000 BMW Z3 vs. 1996 Volvo 440
To start off, 2000 BMW Z3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 440. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z3 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1996 Volvo 440. 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 Volvo 440, 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 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 440. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2000 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW Z3 | 1996 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z3 | 440 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 60 L |
