2004 BMW Z4 vs. 1986 BMW M5
To start off, 2004 BMW Z4 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,428 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M5 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2004 BMW Z4. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW M5 weights approximately 194 kg more than 2004 BMW Z4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1986 BMW M5 (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW Z4. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW Z4. 1986 BMW M5 has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 BMW M5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW Z4 | 1986 BMW M5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 3428 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1519 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 120 L |
