1978 BMW 520 vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 BMW Z3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 270 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3.
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 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 520. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 520. 2001 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW 520 | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 520 | Z3 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1951 cc | 2996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 301 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 89.6 mm |
Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |