1997 BMW Z3 vs. 1986 Ford Meteor
To start off, 1997 BMW Z3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Meteor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Meteor 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 262 more horse power than 1986 Ford Meteor. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Meteor.
Because 1997 BMW Z3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Meteor, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Meteor. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Meteor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 1986 Ford Meteor | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Meteor |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
