1998 Acura EL vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Acura EL would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 208 more horse power than 1998 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 531 kg more than 1998 Acura EL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW Z4 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 2011 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Acura EL, 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, 2011 BMW Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 305 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Acura EL. 2011 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1998 Acura EL has manual transmission. 1998 Acura EL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Acura EL | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | EL | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1600 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1079 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4478 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1704 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1394 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2619 mm | 2497 mm |
