2006 BMW Z4 vs. 1981 BMW 528
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 25 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, 2006 BMW Z4 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1981 BMW 528. (181 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 528. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1981 BMW 528. 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, 1981 BMW 528 (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW Z4. (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 528 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 1981 BMW 528 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | 528 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 2788 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 80 mm |
| 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 | 1330 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
