Al-Zarrar and world MBTs...... that ought to be an interesting comparison ...for sure ....Al-Zarrar is a hybrid kinda project that has been designed and tailored specifically to meet the requirements of Pakistan Army. The export possibility of Al-Zarrar was probably never in mind once the go ahead for modifications was given. But it did arouse some interest in ctys operating the T-55 / Type 59 tanks, who saw a new possibility of major upgradation in their existing fleet w/o really going for a new tank.
As far as comparison is concerned, the claimed modifications should really place the Al-Zarrar amongst the leading tanks in the world ... but i am quite sure, it is not the case, since i have operated on them. The tank has undergone a number of modifications. The suspension system has been improved to bear the weight of 125 mm gun. The gun itself, NBC protection system, Explosion supression system, semi-auto loader, new FCIs. The size of the hull remains to be that of the original tank where as a new turret, mostly on the designs of t-85 has been placed atop. The turret seems slightly larger on the hull thus giving it an awkward kinda look so say ..... nevertheless the mobility performance of the tank has improved than the original ones owing to better power pack ,,,, 730 HP turbo supercharged deisel engine and better suspension. The major maintenance problem is with the Engine top plate .... since the turret has grown larger, the gun has to be traversed sideways to make room for opening the engine top plate .... thus making a routine maintenance operation a cumbersome ordeal, specially once the tank is parked in the MT sheds .. .the firing performance of the tank is par acceptable limits, but not out standing .....in comparison to other tanks, i dont know really ... may be you could place it equal to a T-72 with all the improvements and all .... but anything beyond that .... hmm i dont think so ...