2005 BMW X5 vs. 1997 BMW Z3
To start off, 2005 BMW X5 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 118 more horse power than 2005 BMW X5. (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X5 weights approximately 777 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
Because 2005 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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 X5 (520 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW Z3. (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2005 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW X5 | 1997 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 3245 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 520 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2170 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 51 L |
