1993 BMW M3 vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 BMW M3 (281 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2012 BMW Z4. (244 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1993 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 BMW M3. (321 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 BMW M3 | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2990 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 281 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6 seconds | 5.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
