1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (270 Nm @ 1250 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 3 | Z4 |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 90.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1480 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4239 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1791 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2497 mm |