1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus 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 Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 350 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus.
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 Taurus, 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 Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3. 2009 Ford Taurus 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 Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW Z3 | 2009 Ford Taurus | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | Z3 | Taurus |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2793 cc | 3496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 191 HP | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6251 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 338 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4501 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5130 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1570 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2870 mm |