1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2005 BMW 525
To start off, 2005 BMW 525 is newer by 7 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 525 weights approximately 226 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 2005 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW 525 will offer significantly more control. 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 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 525. 2005 BMW 525 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. 2005 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2005 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1686 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2890 mm |
