1999 BMW Z9 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 1999 BMW Z9 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,901 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z9 (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z9 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3.
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, 1999 BMW Z9 (560 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1999 BMW Z9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW Z9 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z9 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3901 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2700 mm |
