2006 BMW X3 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 is newer by 10 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 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (184 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 58 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.
Because 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2006 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 184 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 | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 51 L |
