1986 BMW Z1 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 26 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (210 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1986 BMW Z1. (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW Z1.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW Z1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW Z1. (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW Z1. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW Z1 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z1 | R |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 3216 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 80 L |
