1987 BMW Z1 vs. 2009 Volvo V50
To start off, 2009 Volvo V50 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2009 Volvo V50. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volvo V50.
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, 2009 Volvo V50, 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, 2009 Volvo V50 (240 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW Z1 | 2009 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z1 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2650 mm |
