2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 206 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. (129 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 136 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4.
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, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. (217 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | Z4 | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
