2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1983 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1983 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 BMW Z4 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 525. (241 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 525. 2009 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1983 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1983 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1983 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2693 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Top Speed | 244 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
