1975 BMW 316 vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 BMW Z3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1975 BMW 316. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1975 BMW 316. 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 316. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 BMW 316 | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 2990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 51 L |
