1988 BMW Z1 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 23 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1988 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 120 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW Z1 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz B | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Z1 | B |
Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2034 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1370 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4280 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1610 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1780 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2780 mm |