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 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2009 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi R8 (518 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 343 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. 2009 Audi R8 weights approximately 330 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 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 (530 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 299 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 | 5204 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
