2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (201 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 64 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 BMW Z4 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2009 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 244 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |
