1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 BMW 530
To start off, 2006 BMW 530 is newer by 8 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, 2006 BMW 530 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3.
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, 1998 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 530. (298 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 530.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2006 BMW 530 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | 530 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2890 mm |
