1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 BMW X5
To start off, 2009 BMW X5 is newer by 11 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, 2009 BMW X5 (282 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X5 weights approximately 755 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 2009 BMW X5 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, 2009 BMW X5 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, 2009 BMW X5 (580 Nm) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (320 Nm). This means 2009 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3. 2009 BMW X5 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. 2009 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2009 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 2150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2940 mm |
