1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1999 Kia Elan
To start off, 1999 Kia Elan is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1999 Kia Elan. (149 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 327 kg more than 1999 Kia Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW Z3 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 1998 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Kia Elan, 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Elan. (186 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1999 Kia Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | Z3 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2260 mm |
