1991 BMW Z1 vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 is newer by 21 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1991 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 550 weights approximately 730 kg more than 1991 BMW Z1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 379 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
1991 BMW Z1 | 2012 BMW 550 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | Z1 | 550 |
Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 4400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 609 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1980 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4899 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1464 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2968 mm |