1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2003 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2003 Pontiac Vibe is newer by 6 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 210 more horse power than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 168 kg more than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Pontiac Vibe 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, 2003 Pontiac Vibe 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 195 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. 2003 Pontiac Vibe has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Pontiac Vibe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2003 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | Z3 | Vibe |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 45 L |
