2005 BMW M3 vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW M3 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 59 more horse power than 2008 BMW Z4. (261 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 295 kg more than 2008 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, 2005 BMW M3 (337 Nm) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (316 Nm). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW M3 | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3244 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 337 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
