1987 BMW Z1 vs. 2009 BMW 128
To start off, 2009 BMW 128 is newer by 22 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 128 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 128 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1987 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 128 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 128 weights approximately 280 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, 2009 BMW 128 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 128 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW Z1 | 2009 BMW 128 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z1 | 128 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
