2009 BMW 320 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2009 BMW 320. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 223 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, 2009 BMW 320 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2009 BMW 320 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 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 320 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 320 | Z3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2793 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 184 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 275 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3950 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1302 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 51 L |