1989 BMW Z1 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW Z1 weights approximately 290 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1989 BMW Z1 (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. (129 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. 2001 Volkswagen Polo has automatic transmission and 1989 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1989 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Volkswagen Polo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW Z1 | 2001 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z1 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
