1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2005 Cadillac XLR
To start off, 2005 Cadillac XLR 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 4,564 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Cadillac XLR (322 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 259 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.
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, 2005 Cadillac XLR (420 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (320 Nm). This means 2005 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3. 2005 Cadillac XLR 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 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2005 Cadillac XLR | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | Z3 | XLR |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4564 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 322 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2690 mm |
