2004 BMW Z4 vs. 1981 Honda Ballade
To start off, 2004 BMW Z4 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW Z4 (185 HP) has 118 more horse power than 1981 Honda Ballade. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW Z4 weights approximately 511 kg more than 1981 Honda Ballade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW Z4 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 2004 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Honda Ballade, 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 BMW Z4 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Ballade.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW Z4 | 1981 Honda Ballade | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | Z4 | Ballade |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1334 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2330 mm |
