1986 BMW Z1 vs. 1988 Saab 9000
To start off, 1988 Saab 9000 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Saab 9000 (175 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1986 BMW Z1. (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Saab 9000 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1986 BMW Z1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW Z1 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 1986 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000, 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, 1988 Saab 9000 (278 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW Z1. (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW Z1 | 1988 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | Z1 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 998 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2670 mm |
