1978 BMW M1 vs. 1999 BMW Z3
To start off, 1999 BMW Z3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1999 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW Z3 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1978 BMW M1.
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, 1978 BMW M1 (330 Nm) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 1978 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 1999 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M1 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 63 L |
