1999 Fiat Barchetta vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Fiat Barchetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Fiat Barchetta would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1999 Fiat Barchetta. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Fiat Barchetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1999 Fiat Barchetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Fiat Barchetta, 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Fiat Barchetta. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Fiat Barchetta. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1999 Fiat Barchetta has manual transmission. 1999 Fiat Barchetta 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:
| 1999 Fiat Barchetta | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Fiat | BMW |
| Model | Barchetta | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2450 mm |
