2004 BMW 318 vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 5 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, 2004 BMW 318 (355 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW Z4. (298 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
