1989 BMW Z1 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco (207 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1989 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco weights approximately 48 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 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, 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW Z1. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW Z1. 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco 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 Volkswagen Scirocco will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW Z1 | 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z1 | Scirocco |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4256 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1404 mm |
