1998 Oldsmobile Alero vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Oldsmobile Alero would be higher. At 3,392 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. (168 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW Z4 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 2011 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero, 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 Oldsmobile Alero (271 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW Z4. (270 Nm @ 1250 RPM). This means 1998 Oldsmobile Alero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW Z4. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Oldsmobile Alero | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | BMW |
| Model | Alero | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3392 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
