2006 BMW Z4 vs. 1997 BMW S3
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 117 kg more than 1997 BMW S3. 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, 2006 BMW Z4 (365 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 1997 BMW S3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 258 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
