2006 BMW Z4 vs. 1999 BMW 330
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 330 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1999 BMW 330. (184 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 330 weights approximately 360 kg more than 2006 BMW Z4.
Because 1999 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 BMW 330 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 BMW 330 (400 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW Z4. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 1999 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | 330 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
