2003 BMW Z4 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2003 BMW Z4 is newer by 5 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW Z4 (227 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2003 BMW Z4.
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, 2003 BMW Z4 (291 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW Z4 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
