1989 BMW Z1 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1989 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW Z1. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW Z1. 2009 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2009 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW Z1 | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z1 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2580 mm |
