1978 BMW 628 vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 628. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 628 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 BMW 628 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 BMW 628. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 628.
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 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 628. (260 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 628.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 628 | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 628 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
