2002 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Scion tC
To start off, 2012 Scion tC is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z3 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 48 more horse power than 2012 Scion tC. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Scion tC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 12 kg more than 2012 Scion tC. 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, 2012 Scion tC, 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 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Scion tC. (234 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Scion tC. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2012 Scion tC has manual transmission. 2012 Scion tC 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:
| 2002 BMW Z3 | 2012 Scion tC | |
| Make | BMW | Scion |
| Model | Z3 | tC |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1388 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
