2005 Acura RSX vs. 1997 BMW Z3
To start off, 2005 Acura RSX is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 2005 Acura RSX. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Acura RSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 171 kg more than 2005 Acura RSX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Acura RSX, 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, 1997 BMW Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Acura RSX. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Acura RSX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Acura RSX | 1997 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | RSX | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3245 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1222 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 51 L |
