1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2011 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2011 Fiat Panda is newer by 13 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2011 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 600 kg more than 2011 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Fiat Panda, 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 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2011 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | Z3 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2310 mm |
