1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Cadillac STS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac STS 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 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac STS (302 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac STS weights approximately 240 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, 2009 Cadillac STS (369 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (320 Nm). This means 2009 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3. 2009 Cadillac STS 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 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2009 Cadillac STS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | Z3 | STS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 369 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2960 mm |
