1997 BMW Z3 vs. 1987 Jaguar XJS
To start off, 1997 BMW Z3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 3,590 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1987 Jaguar XJS. (217 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Jaguar XJS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 237 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 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Jaguar XJS. (331 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Jaguar XJS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 1987 Jaguar XJS | |
| Make | BMW | Jaguar |
| Model | Z3 | XJS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 3590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 331 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 91.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2600 mm |
