2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 246 more horse power than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 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, 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 2009 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass has manual transmission. 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Z4 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2640 mm |
