1999 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Kia Soul
To start off, 2012 Kia Soul is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2012 Kia Soul. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Soul. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW Z3 weights approximately 209 kg more than 2012 Kia Soul. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Kia Soul, 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, 1999 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Soul. (167 Nm). This means 1999 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Soul. 2012 Kia Soul has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Soul will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW Z3 | 2012 Kia Soul | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | Z3 | Soul |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1186 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2550 mm |
