1997 BMW 730 vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 BMW Z3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1997 BMW 730. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 730 weights approximately 345 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3.
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, 2001 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 730. (279 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 730. 2001 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW 730 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW 730 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 730 | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 730 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 89.6 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 | 1745 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 51 L |
