2008 BMW X3 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 485 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW X3 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:
2008 BMW X3 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | X3 | Z3 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2926 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 275 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 213 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1255 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4030 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 51 L |