1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2004 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2004 Peugeot 406 is newer by 7 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 227 more horse power than 2004 Peugeot 406. (106 HP @ 1750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 106 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
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, 2004 Peugeot 406, 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 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Peugeot 406. (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Peugeot 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2004 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | BMW | Peugeot |
| Model | Z3 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1499 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |
