2002 Audi A4 vs. 1986 BMW Z1
To start off, 2002 Audi A4 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW Z1 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2002 Audi A4. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A4 weights approximately 377 kg more than 1986 BMW Z1.
Because 1986 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 1986 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Audi A4 (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW Z1. (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A4 | 1986 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 998 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |
