1994 BMW 316 vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1994 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1994 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1994 BMW 316. 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 BMW 316. 2008 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1994 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1994 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW 316 | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 189 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.6 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
