1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2013 BMW X5
To start off, 2013 BMW X5 is newer by 16 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 72 more horse power than 2013 BMW X5. (261 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2013 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW X5 weights approximately 962 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
Because 2013 BMW X5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2013 BMW X5 (576 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW Z3. (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2013 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW Z3. 2013 BMW X5 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. 2013 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2013 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| 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 | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 2355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4857 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2197 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1776 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2933 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 85 L |
