1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Dodge Charger
To start off, 2009 Dodge Charger 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 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Charger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Charger. (250 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Charger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Charger weights approximately 299 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 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Charger. (339 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Charger. 2009 Dodge Charger 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. 2009 Dodge Charger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2009 Dodge Charger | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | Z3 | Charger |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 3518 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1692 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3050 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 68 L |
