ok lets talk competition -- z33 vs e36 m3

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Aug 31, 2002 | 09:43 PM

350zpower

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From: Concord, Cali

ok lets talk competition -- z33 vs e36 m3

straightaway and twisty road course .. whats the likely outcome.

Sep 1, 2002 | 04:03 AM

TCL

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I think those two cars will be very comparable with the Z having a slight edge in acceleration across the rev range. Handling will be tough to call. I think it may come down to the difference in tire selection. I believe that those two cars are close enough in performance, handling, and braking that the real difference will be the driver. Would be interesting to compare lap times of two stock examples on the same track with the same driver.

Having owned an E36, I'll post my impressions of the differences between the two after I take delivery of the Z.

Sep 1, 2002 | 04:42 AM

mfM3

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Next time I see a 350Z at a stoplight, I'll post the results. My guess is the 350Z will outrun an E36 M3 in a straight line. However, I have NOS so it should be fun to see what happens.

I believe performance in the twisties is going to be decided by the driver's skill and knowledge of their cars capabilities. It was difficult to get a feel for the limits of my E36 M3 until I participated in a driving school. However, I'm not a track junkie at this point, anyone who is can probably out-drive the 350Z with a lesser car due to experience and skill gained from seat time on a track pushing their car close to their limits.

Sep 1, 2002 | 05:18 AM

jims2321

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It depends upon the driver. One of my friends drives SCCA, and in his M3 would eat up a 350Z with no problems... He now has a 850Ci, and after the suspension change, will definitely eat up everything short of custom built race car. The 2002 M3 has 333 HP, but I am not sure of the gearing, so I can't testify to whether or not in a drag race (1/4mi or 1mi) which would win (although again depending upon the driver, I suspect the M3 would win the 1mi run, maybe not the 1/4mi).

Jim