2008 BMW 320 vs. 1997 BMW Z3
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 112 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
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, 1997 BMW Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320. 2008 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 1997 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 3245 cc |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 51 L |
