1996 Honda Prelude vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Honda Prelude. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda Prelude would be higher. At 2,258 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Honda Prelude is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (244 HP) has 54 more horse power than 1996 Honda Prelude. (190 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda Prelude. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1996 Honda Prelude. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW Z4 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 2011 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Honda Prelude, 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, 2011 BMW Z4 (350 Nm) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Prelude. (214 Nm). This means 2011 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Prelude.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda Prelude | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Honda | BMW |
| Model | Prelude | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2258 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 244 HP |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2497 mm |
