2000 BMW Z3 vs. 1990 BMW Z1
To start off, 2000 BMW Z3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2000 BMW Z3. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2000 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z3 weights approximately 136 kg more than 1990 BMW Z1.
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, 1990 BMW Z1 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW Z3. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW Z3. 2000 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW Z1 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 | 1990 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2450 mm |
