1986 BMW Z1 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1986 BMW Z1 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 316 kg more than 1986 BMW Z1.
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 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW Z1. (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW Z1 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z1 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 998 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
