1987 BMW Z1 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1987 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 344 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 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW Z1 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z1 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2580 mm |
