2002 BMW Z4 vs. 1998 Chevrolet Prizm
To start off, 2002 BMW Z4 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Prizm would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z4 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z4 weights approximately 296 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Prizm, 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, 2002 BMW Z4 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. 2002 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1998 Chevrolet Prizm has manual transmission. 1998 Chevrolet Prizm will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW Z4 | 1998 Chevrolet Prizm | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | Z4 | Prizm |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2470 mm |
