2006 BMW 530 vs. 1998 BMW Z3
To start off, 2006 BMW 530 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 2006 BMW 530. (23 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 530 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
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 Z3 (320 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 530. (300 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 530. 2006 BMW 530 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 530 | 1998 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 530 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3201 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2450 mm |
