2004 Audi S4 vs. 1986 BMW Z1
To start off, 2004 Audi S4 is newer by 18 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1986 BMW Z1. (171 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi S4 weights approximately 722 kg more than 1986 BMW Z1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi S4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW Z1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi S4 will offer significantly more control. 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 S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW Z1. (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi S4 | 1986 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S4 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 998 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 58 L |
