2004 BMW Z4 vs. 1998 BMW M
To start off, 2004 BMW Z4 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW M would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW M (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2004 BMW Z4. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW M weights approximately 125 kg more than 2004 BMW Z4. 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, 1998 BMW M (340 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW Z4. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW Z4 | 1998 BMW M | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | M |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.7 seconds | 5.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
