1987 BMW Z1 vs. 2000 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (221 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1987 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 265 kg more than 1987 BMW Z1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 BMW Z1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle 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, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (320 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2000 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW Z1 | 2000 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z1 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
