1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan 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 3,299 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan. (175 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 296 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
Because 1998 BMW Z3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan. (278 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan 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 Dodge Grand Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | Z3 | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3080 mm |
