1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2007 BMW 545
To start off, 2007 BMW 545 is newer by 9 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 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 545 (328 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 545 weights approximately 580 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, 2007 BMW 545 (450 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (320 Nm). This means 2007 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2007 BMW 545 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | 545 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2840 mm |
