1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2013 Porsche Cayman
To start off, 2013 Porsche Cayman 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 3,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Porsche Cayman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2013 Porsche Cayman. (316 HP @ 7200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2013 Porsche Cayman. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 43 kg more than 2013 Porsche Cayman. 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, 2013 Porsche Cayman (370 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW Z3. (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2013 Porsche Cayman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2013 Porsche Cayman | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | Z3 | Cayman |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 3400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 316 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 277 km/hour |
| 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 | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4347 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1306 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2415 mm |
