2009 Audi A8 vs. 1987 BMW Z1
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 5,998 cc, 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 269 more horse power than 1987 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 745 kg more than 1987 BMW Z1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 BMW Z1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 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, 2009 Audi A8 (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW Z1. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1987 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1987 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1987 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2450 mm |
