1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Porsche Boxster
To start off, 2012 Porsche Boxster 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 3,400 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2012 Porsche Boxster. (310 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Porsche Boxster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 42 kg more than 2012 Porsche Boxster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Porsche Boxster (360 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW Z3. (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Porsche Boxster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2012 Porsche Boxster | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | Z3 | Boxster |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 3400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1351 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4371 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1293 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2416 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 64 L |
