2002 BMW Z4 vs. 2004 BMW 318

To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z4 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 79 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z4 weights approximately 6 kg more than 2004 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, 2002 BMW Z4 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318. 2002 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318
Make BMW BMW
Model Z4 318
Year Released 2002 2004
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2996 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 227 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 84 mm
Engine Stroke Size 89.6 mm 90 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 10.0:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 6.2 seconds 9.3 seconds
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1386 kg 1380 kg
Vehicle Length 4100 mm 4270 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2500 mm 2770 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.5 L/100km 7.4 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 63 L