1988 BMW M5 vs. 1999 BMW Z3
To start off, 1999 BMW Z3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,533 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M5 (311 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1999 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M5 weights approximately 103 kg more than 1999 BMW Z3. 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, 1988 BMW M5 (360 Nm) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 1988 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M5 | 1999 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M5 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3533 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Top Speed | 253 km/hour | 186 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1733 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
