1983 Ford Orion vs. 1999 BMW Z3
To start off, 1999 BMW Z3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Orion would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z3 (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1983 Ford Orion. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW Z3 weights approximately 754 kg more than 1983 Ford Orion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW Z3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1999 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Orion, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1999 BMW Z3 (180 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Orion. (100 Nm). This means 1999 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Orion.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Orion | 1999 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Orion | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Top Speed | 157 km/hour | 186 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 876 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2450 mm |
