1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen T5. (129 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 148 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen T5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW Z3 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 1998 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (340 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (320 Nm). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3410 mm |
