2003 Honda Z vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Honda Z would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 363 more horse power than 2003 Honda Z. (51 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 695 kg more than 2003 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Honda Z is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Honda Z will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Honda Z. (61 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Honda Z | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Honda | BMW |
| Model | Z | M3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 654 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 63 L |
