1988 Nissan Micra vs. 2004 BMW Z4
To start off, 2004 BMW Z4 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Nissan Micra would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW Z4 (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1988 Nissan Micra. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1988 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW Z4 weights approximately 660 kg more than 1988 Nissan Micra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW Z4 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 2004 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Nissan Micra, 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, 2004 BMW Z4 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Nissan Micra. (73 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Nissan Micra. 2004 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1988 Nissan Micra has manual transmission. 1988 Nissan Micra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Nissan Micra | 2004 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Nissan | BMW |
| Model | Micra | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 665 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2500 mm |
