1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Ford Flex
To start off, 2009 Ford Flex 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Flex is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Flex (262 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Flex should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 429 kg more than 2009 Ford Flex.
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 Ford Flex, 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, 2009 Ford Flex (336 Nm) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (320 Nm). This means 2009 Ford Flex will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3. 2009 Ford Flex 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 Ford Flex will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2009 Ford Flex | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Flex |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 262 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3000 mm |
