1990 BMW Z1 vs. 2008 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 Volvo V50 is newer by 18 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1990 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V50 weights approximately 411 kg more than 1990 BMW Z1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW Z1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V50 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, 2008 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW Z1 | 2008 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z1 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1661 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2650 mm |
