1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander 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 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2009 Toyota Highlander. (270 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 63 kg more than 2009 Toyota Highlander. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Toyota Highlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander will offer significantly more control. 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 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Highlander. (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Highlander. 2009 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2009 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | Z3 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 3456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 73 L |
