2009 Acura TSX vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2009 Acura TSX is newer by 13 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura TSX (201 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (184 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura TSX should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Acura TSX weights approximately 486 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 1996 BMW Z3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Acura TSX, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Acura TSX. (231 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Acura TSX. 2009 Acura TSX 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. 2009 Acura TSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura TSX | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | TSX | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1788 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
