1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2004 Pontiac Montana
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Montana is newer by 6 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Pontiac Montana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2004 Pontiac Montana. (185 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Pontiac Montana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Pontiac Montana weights approximately 393 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
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, 2004 Pontiac Montana, 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 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Pontiac Montana. (298 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Pontiac Montana. 2004 Pontiac Montana has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Pontiac Montana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2004 Pontiac Montana | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | Z3 | Montana |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1788 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3050 mm |
