1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2013 BMW 5 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 5 Series is newer by 15 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 4,395 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 BMW 5 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 5 Series (439 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 248 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 5 Series should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 5 Series weights approximately 590 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 2013 BMW 5 Series is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 BMW 5 Series 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, 2013 BMW 5 Series (651 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 371 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2013 BMW 5 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3. 2013 BMW 5 Series 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. 2013 BMW 5 Series will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2013 BMW 5 Series | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | 5 Series |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 4395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 439 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 651 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2094 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2968 mm |
