2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1987 BMW Z1
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1987 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1987 BMW Z1. 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 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1987 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
