2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1981 Citroen LN

To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Citroen LN. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Citroen LN would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1981 Citroen LN. (35 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Citroen LN. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 652 kg more than 1981 Citroen LN. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW Z4 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Citroen LN, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 BMW Z4 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Citroen LN. (50 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Citroen LN.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW Z4 1981 Citroen LN
Make BMW Citroen
Model Z4 LN
Year Released 2009 1981
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 652 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 2 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 215 HP 35 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 50 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1362 kg 710 kg
Vehicle Length 4100 mm 3400 mm
Vehicle Width 1310 mm 1530 mm
Vehicle Height 1790 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2500 mm 2240 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 43 L