1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2013 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze 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 199 more horse power than 2013 Chevrolet Cruze. (134 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2013 Chevrolet Cruze. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 7 kg more than 2013 Chevrolet Cruze. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze, 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 186 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Chevrolet Cruze. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Chevrolet Cruze.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2013 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | Z3 | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 59 L |
