2002 BMW 330 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW 330 is newer by 6 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW 330 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2002 BMW 330.
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, 2002 BMW 330 (410 Nm) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2002 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 330 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 330 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
