1986 BMW M3 vs. 2007 BMW Z4
To start off, 2007 BMW Z4 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M3 (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2007 BMW Z4. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW Z4 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1986 BMW M3.
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, 1986 BMW M3 (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW Z4. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M3 | 2007 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2500 mm |
