1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Honda Accord
To start off, 2012 Honda Accord 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2012 Honda Accord. (271 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Accord weights approximately 154 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, 2012 Honda Accord, 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Accord. (340 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Accord. 2012 Honda Accord 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. 2012 Honda Accord will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2012 Honda Accord | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | Z3 | Accord |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1547 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4851 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1433 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2741 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |
