1987 BMW Z1 vs. 2004 Buick Century
To start off, 2004 Buick Century is newer by 17 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 3,134 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Buick Century (176 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1987 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick Century weights approximately 270 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 1987 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 1987 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Buick Century, 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, 2004 Buick Century (264 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW Z1. 2004 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 1987 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1987 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW Z1 | 2004 Buick Century | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | Z1 | Century |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3134 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2780 mm |
