1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1986 Nissan Micra
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Nissan Micra would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1986 Nissan Micra. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 794 kg more than 1986 Nissan Micra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Nissan Micra, 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Nissan Micra. (73 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1986 Nissan Micra | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | Z3 | Micra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 73 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2310 mm |
