1986 BMW Z1 vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 25 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1986 BMW Z1. (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 722 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW Z1. (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW Z1 | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Z1 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 231 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 | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |
