1998 BMW 320 vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 10 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. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
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, 1998 BMW 320 (281 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (250 Nm). This means 1998 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4. 2008 BMW Z4 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. 2008 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 7.5 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 | 1450 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 9.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
