1990 BMW Z1 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW Z1 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 67 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 185 kg more than 1990 BMW Z1.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B, 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 Mercedes-Benz B (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW Z1 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z1 | B |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2780 mm |
