1991 BMW Z1 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze 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 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 14 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (161 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze weights approximately 230 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW Z1. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze 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. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW Z1 | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | Z1 | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1797 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2685 mm |
