1989 BMW Z1 vs. 2002 Chevrolet Prizm
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Prizm is newer by 13 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 52 more horse power than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW Z1 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. 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, 2002 Chevrolet Prizm, 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 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. 2002 Chevrolet Prizm 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. 2002 Chevrolet Prizm will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW Z1 | 2002 Chevrolet Prizm | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | Z1 | Prizm |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2470 mm |
