2009 BMW 535 vs. 1998 BMW Z3
To start off, 2009 BMW 535 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 535 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (191 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 535 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 535 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 535 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, 2009 BMW 535 (407 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 535 | 1998 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 535 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 191 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2450 mm |
