1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2001 Ferrari F550
To start off, 2001 Ferrari F550 is newer by 3 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 5,474 cc (12 cylinders), 2001 Ferrari F550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ferrari F550 (485 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 294 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ferrari F550 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ferrari F550 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3. 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, 2001 Ferrari F550, 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, 2001 Ferrari F550 (570 Nm) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (280 Nm). This means 2001 Ferrari F550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2001 Ferrari F550 | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | Z3 | F550 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 5474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 485 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
