2006 BMW Z4 vs. 1992 BMW 538
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 538. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 538 would be higher. At 3,795 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 BMW 538 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 538 (341 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 2006 BMW Z4. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 538 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 538 weights approximately 504 kg more than 2006 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, 1992 BMW 538 (400 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW Z4. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 538 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 1992 BMW 538 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | 538 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 341 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
