2000 BMW Z3 vs. 2004 Ford Taurus

To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2004 Ford Taurus. (155 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 162 kg more than 2000 BMW Z3.

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, 2004 Ford Taurus, 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, 2004 Ford Taurus (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW Z3. (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW Z3. 2004 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2000 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 2000 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2000 BMW Z3 2004 Ford Taurus
Make BMW Ford
Model Z3 Taurus
Year Released 2000 2004
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2489 cc 2967 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 190 HP 155 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4900 RPM
Torque 237 Nm 244 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3950 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 88.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 74.9 mm 78.7 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.3:1
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 1315 kg 1477 kg
Vehicle Length 4060 mm 5030 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 3030 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 51 L 68 L