2005 BMW M3 vs. 1988 BMW Z1
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1988 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1988 BMW Z1. 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, 2005 BMW M3 (337 Nm) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW Z1. (230 Nm). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW M3 | 1988 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3244 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 337 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2450 mm |
