2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1988 BMW 316
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 480 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
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 Z4 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1988 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 86 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 72 mm |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.8 seconds | 15.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
