2004 BMW Z4 vs. 1981 BMW 528
To start off, 2004 BMW Z4 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 528 (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2004 BMW Z4. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW Z4 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1981 BMW 528.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1981 BMW 528 (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW Z4. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 528 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
2004 BMW Z4 | 1981 BMW 528 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | Z4 | 528 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2788 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 181 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.3:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |