1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2005 Toyota Camry
To start off, 2005 Toyota Camry is newer by 8 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 3,297 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Toyota Camry is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2005 Toyota Camry. (223 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Toyota Camry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota Camry weights approximately 107 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, 2005 Toyota Camry, 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 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Toyota Camry. (326 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Toyota Camry. 2005 Toyota Camry 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. 2005 Toyota Camry will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2005 Toyota Camry | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | Z3 | Camry |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 3297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2730 mm |
