2007 BMW 330 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2007 BMW 330 is newer by 11 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 330 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 330 weights approximately 460 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 2007 BMW 330 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, 2007 BMW 330 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, 2007 BMW 330 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2007 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 2007 BMW 330 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 330 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 330 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 51 L |
