2004 BMW Z4 vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 2004 BMW Z4 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW Z4 (225 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW Z4 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. 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, 2004 BMW Z4 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW Z4 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
