1998 BMW 320 vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. Both 1998 BMW 320 and 2002 BMW Z3 are equipped with a 2,171 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (150 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 79 kg more than 2002 BMW Z3.
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, both vehicles can yield 210 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 51 L |
