2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2003 BMW 530
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 215 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 530 weights approximately 380 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, 2003 BMW 530 (501 Nm) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (250 Nm). This means 2003 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4. 2008 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 530 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 | 2003 BMW 530 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | 530 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 501 Nm |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.5 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
