1989 BMW Z1 vs. 2006 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2006 Ford S-Max is newer by 17 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 46 more horse power than 2006 Ford S-Max. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford S-Max weights approximately 493 kg more than 1989 BMW Z1.
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, 2006 Ford S-Max, 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, 2006 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW Z1. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW Z1 | 2006 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z1 | S-Max |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1743 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2860 mm |
