1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1972 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 75 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
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, 1998 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. (237 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW Z3 | 1972 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | Z3 | Firebird |
Year Released | 1998 | 1972 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 237 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1470 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2750 mm |