2004 Audi A4 vs. 1988 BMW Z1
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 280 kg more than 1988 BMW Z1.
Because 1988 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 1988 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A4 (310 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1988 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2450 mm |
