2006 BMW M3 vs. 1999 BMW Z9
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW Z9. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW Z9 would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (355 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1999 BMW Z9. (242 HP @ 7400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW Z9. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW Z9 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2006 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, 1999 BMW Z9 (560 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW M3. (370 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1999 BMW Z9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 1999 BMW Z9 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | Z9 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 4397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 3060 mm |
