1997 BMW Z3 vs. 1978 Chrysler Valiant
To start off, 1997 BMW Z3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 27 kg more than 1997 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, 1997 BMW Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (277 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 1978 Chrysler Valiant | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | Z3 | Valiant |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 4015 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2830 mm |
