1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 BMW 328
To start off, 2012 BMW 328 is newer by 15 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 103 more horse power than 2012 BMW 328. (230 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 328. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 328 weights approximately 342 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 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 328. (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 328.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW Z3 | 2012 BMW 328 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | Z3 | 328 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
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 | 230 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 89.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 84 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1735 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4624 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1811 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1429 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 57 L |