1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Chevrolet Lumina
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Lumina 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 5,967 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Lumina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Lumina (362 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Lumina should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 134 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Lumina.
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 Chevrolet Lumina (530 Nm) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (320 Nm). This means 2009 Chevrolet Lumina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3. 2009 Chevrolet Lumina 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 Chevrolet Lumina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2009 Chevrolet Lumina | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | Z3 | Lumina |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 5967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 530 Nm |
| 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 | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2920 mm |
