1997 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jeep Wrangler. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jeep Wrangler would be higher. At 3,964 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (175 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 30 kg more than 2002 BMW Z3.
Because 1997 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Wrangler 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (291 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Jeep Wrangler has manual transmission. 1997 Jeep Wrangler will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Wrangler | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Jeep | BMW |
| Model | Wrangler | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3964 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.6 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 51 L |
