2002 BMW M3 vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2008 BMW Z4. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW M3 weights approximately 235 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (250 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4. 2002 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
