1982 BMW 318 vs. 2009 BMW Z4

To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1982 BMW 318. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1982 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1982 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2009 BMW Z4 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 BMW 318. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 BMW 318. 2009 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1982 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1982 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1982 BMW 318 2009 BMW Z4
Make BMW BMW
Model 318 Z4
Year Released 1982 2009
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1765 cc 2996 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 89 HP 261 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6600 RPM
Torque 140 Nm 315 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 85.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 71 mm 88 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 10.7:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1020 kg 1395 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4100 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1270 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2500 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 55 L