1986 BMW Z1 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 23 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1986 BMW Z1. (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1447 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW Z1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 Mercedes-Benz GL (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW Z1. (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW Z1. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1986 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1986 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW Z1 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z1 | GL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 998 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 100 L |
