2008 BMW 320 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 12 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 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2008 BMW 320.
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, 2008 BMW 320 (210 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 226 km/hour | 186 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
