1997 BMW Z3 vs. 1981 Renault 9
To start off, 1997 BMW Z3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 9. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 9 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 248 more horse power than 1981 Renault 9. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 9. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 487 kg more than 1981 Renault 9. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 BMW Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 9. (139 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 9.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 1981 Renault 9 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | Z3 | 9 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 139 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2490 mm |
