1974 BMW 3 vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 57 kg more than 1974 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 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 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 | 200 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 5.7 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 | 1433 kg | 1490 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 |
