1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2008 BMW 330
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 203 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.
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 330 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2008 BMW 330 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. 2008 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 2008 BMW 330 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | Z3 | 330 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2979 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 184 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 89.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1505 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 63 L |