1988 BMW Z1 vs. 2004 Audi A4
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (169 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1988 BMW Z1.
Because 2004 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW Z1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 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, 1988 BMW Z1 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1988 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A4. 2004 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW Z1 | 2004 Audi A4 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | Z1 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2660 mm |
