1999 Audi A4 vs. 1990 BMW Z1
To start off, 1999 Audi A4 is newer by 9 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 52 more horse power than 1999 Audi A4. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi A4 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1990 BMW Z1.
Because 1990 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 1990 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi A4, 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, 1990 BMW Z1 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A4. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 1990 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2450 mm |
