1991 BMW 316 vs. 2000 BMW Z3
To start off, 2000 BMW Z3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,488 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1991 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z3 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1991 BMW 316. 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, 2000 BMW Z3 (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 316. (151 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2000 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 316. 2000 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW 316 | 2000 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 51 L |
