1998 BMW 316 vs. 2004 BMW Z4
To start off, 2004 BMW Z4 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW Z4 (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW Z4 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. 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, 2004 BMW Z4 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 2004 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
