1990 BMW Z1 vs. 1980 Honda Accord

To start off, 1990 BMW Z1 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Honda Accord would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1980 Honda Accord. (80 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 1980 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW Z1 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1980 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1990 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 1990 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Honda Accord, 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, 1990 BMW Z1 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Honda Accord. (126 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Honda Accord.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW Z1 1980 Honda Accord
Make BMW Honda
Model Z1 Accord
Year Released 1990 1980
Body Type Roadster Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1601 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 175 HP 80 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 77 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.8 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 8.4:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1250 kg 930 kg
Vehicle Length 3960 mm 4350 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1280 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2390 mm