2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2001 BMW M
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (328 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2001 BMW M. (320 HP @ 7400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M weights approximately 65 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
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, 2001 BMW M (345 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4. 2008 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2001 BMW M | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | M |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Top Speed | 239 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.2 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.5 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
