2004 BMW Z4 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2004 BMW Z4 is newer by 8 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 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW Z4 (225 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW Z4 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. 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, 2004 BMW Z4 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2004 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW Z4 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
