2008 BMW 320 vs. 1991 BMW Z1
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1991 BMW Z1.
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, 2008 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 1991 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
