2009 BMW M3 vs. 2004 MG ZS
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 MG ZS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 MG ZS 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 314 more horse power than 2004 MG ZS. (100 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 MG ZS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 225 kg more than 2004 MG ZS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 MG ZS, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 MG ZS. (241 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 MG ZS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2004 MG ZS | |
| Make | BMW | MG |
| Model | M3 | ZS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2630 mm |
