2008 BMW 525 vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2008 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3.
Because 2008 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 525 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 525. 2001 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 525 | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
