1989 BMW Z1 vs. 2004 Cadillac XLR
To start off, 2004 Cadillac XLR is newer by 15 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 4,572 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Cadillac XLR (320 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1989 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 390 kg more than 1989 BMW Z1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Cadillac XLR (408 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW Z1. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW Z1 | 2004 Cadillac XLR | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | Z1 | XLR |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 4572 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 408 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2690 mm |
