2000 BMW Z3 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2000 BMW Z3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z3 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. 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, 2000 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2000 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 1998 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2000 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 2000 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW Z3 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1893 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
