2000 BMW Z3 vs. 1997 Buick Century
To start off, 2000 BMW Z3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Buick Century. (165 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Century weights approximately 165 kg more than 2000 BMW Z3.
Because 2000 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 2000 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Buick Century, 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, 1997 Buick Century (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW Z3. (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW Z3 | 1997 Buick Century | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | Z3 | Century |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2488 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 64 L |
