1987 BMW Z1 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (362 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1987 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 399 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz CLK (510 Nm) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW Z1. (230 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW Z1 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z1 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1649 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2700 mm |
