2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1993 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 BMW M3 (281 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2009 BMW Z4. (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 BMW M3 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4. 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, 1993 BMW M3 (321 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW Z4. (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1993 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1993 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.7 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
