1981 Ford Mustang vs. 1999 BMW Z3
To start off, 1999 BMW Z3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1981 Ford Mustang. (173 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW Z3 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1981 Ford Mustang. 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, 1981 Ford Mustang (332 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW Z3. (320 Nm). This means 1981 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Mustang | 1999 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Mustang | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2450 mm |
