2009 Audi R8 vs. 1989 BMW Z1
To start off, 2009 Audi R8 is newer by 20 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 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi R8 (420 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 245 more horse power than 1989 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW Z1 weights approximately 355 kg more than 2009 Audi R8.
Because 2009 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 BMW Z1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 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 R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW Z1. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi R8 | 1989 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | R8 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
