2005 BMW Z4 vs. 1988 BMW M3
To start off, 2005 BMW Z4 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,489 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2005 BMW Z4. (184 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW Z4 weights approximately 99 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
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 Z4 (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2005 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW Z4 | 1988 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2489 cc | 2302 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 192 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
