1987 BMW Z1 vs. 2011 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2011 Cadillac CTS is newer by 24 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Cadillac CTS (304 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1987 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 507 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, 2011 Cadillac CTS (370 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW Z1. 2011 Cadillac CTS 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. 2011 Cadillac CTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW Z1 | 2011 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | Z1 | CTS |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 304 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1757 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2880 mm |
