2009 BMW M3 vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 2002 BMW Z3. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2002 BMW Z3. 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW Z3. (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW Z3. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.6 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 51 L |
