1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2011 Infiniti QX56
To start off, 2011 Infiniti QX56 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 5,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Infiniti QX56 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Infiniti QX56 (400 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Infiniti QX56 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Infiniti QX56 weights approximately 1145 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Infiniti QX56 (559 Nm) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (320 Nm). This means 2011 Infiniti QX56 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3. 2011 Infiniti QX56 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. 2011 Infiniti QX56 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2011 Infiniti QX56 | |
| Make | BMW | Infiniti |
| Model | Z3 | QX56 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 559 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 2540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5291 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2029 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1925 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3076 mm |
