1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2011 BMW 335
To start off, 2011 BMW 335 is newer by 14 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 22 more horse power than 2011 BMW 335. (311 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 335.
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, 2011 BMW 335 (600 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW Z3. (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 335 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2011 BMW 335 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | 335 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 57 L |
