1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 BMW 318
To start off, 2006 BMW 318 is newer by 9 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 220 more horse power than 2006 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 318 weights approximately 162 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 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 318. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW Z3 | 2006 BMW 318 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | Z3 | 318 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 333 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1555 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 63 L |