1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 BMW Z4
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 12 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, 2009 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1997 BMW Z3. (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 132 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW Z4. (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2009 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
