1991 BMW Z1 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 1991 BMW Z1 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1991 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1991 BMW Z1. 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW Z1 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z1 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
