2008 Audi A4 vs. 1989 BMW Z1
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1989 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1989 BMW Z1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 BMW Z1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 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, 2008 Audi A4 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW Z1. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1989 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
