2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1989 BMW 850
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2009 BMW Z4. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1989 BMW 850.
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, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW Z4. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW Z4. 1989 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW Z4 | 1989 BMW 850 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | Z4 | 850 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 296 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 450 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1255 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2690 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |