2005 Acura RSX vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2005 Acura RSX is newer by 3 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 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2005 Acura RSX. (160 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Acura RSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 131 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 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, 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (300 Nm) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Acura RSX. (191 Nm). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Acura RSX. 2005 Acura RSX has automatic transmission and 2002 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 2002 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Acura RSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Acura RSX | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | RSX | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1274 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 51 L |
