2004 BMW Z4 vs. 1988 Porsche 911

To start off, 2004 BMW Z4 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Porsche 911. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Porsche 911 would be higher. At 3,598 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Porsche 911 (246 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2004 BMW Z4. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Porsche 911 weights approximately 154 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.

Because 1988 Porsche 911 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Porsche 911 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, 1988 Porsche 911 (310 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW Z4. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW Z4.

Compare all specifications:

2004 BMW Z4 1988 Porsche 911
Make BMW Porsche
Model Z4 911
Year Released 2004 1988
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 2494 cc 3598 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 185 HP 246 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6100 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 310 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 100 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 76.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 11.3:1
Top Speed 235 km/hour 260 km/hour
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1296 kg 1450 kg
Vehicle Length 4100 mm 4260 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2500 mm 2270 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 77 L