2004 BMW Z4 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 2004 BMW Z4 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2004 BMW Z4. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 78 kg more than 2004 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, 1972 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW Z4. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW Z4 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |
