1991 BMW Z1 vs. 2008 BMW 525
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1991 BMW Z1.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 BMW 525 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW Z1. 2008 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW Z1 | 2008 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z1 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2494 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2840 mm |
