1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2011 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2011 Toyota Highlander 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 146 more horse power than 2011 Toyota Highlander. (187 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 397 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
Because 1997 BMW Z3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Highlander, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Toyota Highlander. (252 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Toyota Highlander. 2011 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. 2011 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2011 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | Z3 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 2700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 73 L |
