1989 BMW Z1 vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 is newer by 23 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1989 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 550 weights approximately 800 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.
Because 2012 BMW 550 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 BMW Z1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 378 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW Z1. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW Z1. 2012 BMW 550 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. 2012 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 BMW Z1 | 2012 BMW 550 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | Z1 | 550 |
Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 4400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 609 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 2050 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4899 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1464 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2968 mm |