2002 BMW Z4 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2002 BMW Z4 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Polo 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 178 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z4 weights approximately 426 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. 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 Volkswagen Polo, 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 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. 2002 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Polo 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 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
