1996 Audi A6 vs. 1990 BMW Z1
To start off, 1996 Audi A6 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Audi A6. (165 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A6 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1990 BMW Z1.
Because 1996 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW Z1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A6 will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 230 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A6 | 1990 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2391 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2450 mm |
