1997 BMW Z3 vs. 1999 Honda S-MX
To start off, 1999 Honda S-MX is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 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 204 more horse power than 1999 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 63 kg more than 1999 Honda S-MX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Honda S-MX will offer significantly more control. 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 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Honda S-MX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 1999 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | Z3 | S-MX |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
