2006 BMW Z4 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2006 BMW Z4. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
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, 1972 BMW 3 (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW Z4. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
