1999 BMW Z9 vs. 1988 BMW M3
To start off, 1999 BMW Z9 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 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 50 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (192 HP @ 6750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z9 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3.
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 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 1999 BMW Z9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW Z9 | 1988 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z9 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3901 cc | 2302 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 192 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2570 mm |
