1988 BMW Z1 vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 21 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 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1988 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 196 kg more than 1988 BMW Z1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW Z1 | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | Z1 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2680 mm |
