2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1986 Nissan 300 ZX
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1986 Nissan 300 ZX. (171 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1986 Nissan 300 ZX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Nissan 300 ZX weights approximately 170 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4.
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 (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Nissan 300 ZX. (234 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Nissan 300 ZX. 2009 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1986 Nissan 300 ZX has manual transmission. 1986 Nissan 300 ZX 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 | 1986 Nissan 300 ZX | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | Z4 | 300 ZX |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2530 mm |
