1997 Audi A6 vs. 1989 BMW Z1
To start off, 1997 Audi A6 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1997 Audi A6. (108 HP @ 4150 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A6 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1989 BMW Z1.
Because 1989 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 1989 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A6, 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, 1997 Audi A6 (235 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW Z1. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A6 | 1989 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4150 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
