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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 14 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 12 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, 1972 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW Z4. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW Z4.
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 | 2497 cc | 2986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 1374 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4660 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |