1991 BMW Z1 vs. 2008 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen T5 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. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen T5. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1020 kg more than 1991 BMW Z1.
Because 1991 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 1991 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2008 Volkswagen T5 (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW Z1 | 2008 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z1 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3010 mm |
