1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Ford F-150
To start off, 2012 Ford F-150 is newer by 14 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford F-150 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford F-150 (411 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford F-150 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford F-150 weights approximately 1269 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.
Because 2012 Ford F-150 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford F-150 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Ford F-150 (588 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 308 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2012 Ford F-150 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3. 2012 Ford F-150 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. 2012 Ford F-150 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2012 Ford F-150 | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | F-150 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 411 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 588 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 2729 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5603 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2192 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1994 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3386 mm |
