1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Ford Mondeo
To start off, 2009 Ford Mondeo 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2009 Ford Mondeo. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Mondeo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 181 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 Ford Mondeo, 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, both vehicles can yield 320 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Ford Mondeo 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 Mondeo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2009 Ford Mondeo | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Mondeo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1576 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2860 mm |
