1986 Subaru 1.8 vs. 2009 BMW Z4

To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Subaru 1.8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru 1.8 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1986 Subaru 1.8. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru 1.8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1986 Subaru 1.8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1986 Subaru 1.8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Subaru 1.8 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 BMW Z4 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru 1.8. (197 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru 1.8. 2009 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1986 Subaru 1.8 has manual transmission. 1986 Subaru 1.8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Subaru 1.8 2009 BMW Z4
Make Subaru BMW
Model 1.8 Z4
Year Released 1986 2009
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1781 cc 2996 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Horse Power 134 HP 261 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6600 RPM
Torque 197 Nm 315 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 2750 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 7.7:1 10.7:1
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1130 kg 1395 kg
Vehicle Length 4380 mm 4100 mm
Vehicle Width 1670 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1270 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2500 mm