2000 BMW Z3 vs. 1973 BMW 3
To start off, 2000 BMW Z3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3 (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2000 BMW Z3. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2000 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z3 weights approximately 116 kg more than 1973 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, 1973 BMW 3 (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW Z3. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW Z3. 2000 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1973 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1973 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW Z3 | 1973 BMW 3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 3153 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 203 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 287 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |
