2007 BMW Z4 vs. 1997 BMW 316
To start off, 2007 BMW Z4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW Z4 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1997 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 316 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2007 BMW Z4.
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, 2007 BMW Z4 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2007 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW Z4 | 1997 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
