1972 Chrysler Centura vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1972 Chrysler Centura. (118 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Chrysler Centura. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1972 Chrysler Centura. 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Chrysler Centura. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Chrysler Centura. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1972 Chrysler Centura has manual transmission. 1972 Chrysler Centura will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chrysler Centura | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Chrysler | BMW |
| Model | Centura | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2450 mm |
