2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1998 Honda Civic

To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Honda Civic would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1998 Honda Civic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1998 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW Z4 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Honda Civic, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Honda Civic. (175 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Honda Civic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW Z4 1998 Honda Civic
Make BMW Honda
Model Z4 Civic
Year Released 2008 1998
Body Type Coupe Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3246 cc 1834 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 338 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 7900 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 365 Nm 175 Nm
Torque RPM 4900 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1495 kg 1170 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4580 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2500 mm 2630 mm