2003 BMW M3 vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2012 BMW Z4. (182 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 38 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW Z4. (270 Nm @ 1250 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M3 | Z4 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 84 mm |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1480 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4239 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1791 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2497 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |