2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1994 BMW 520
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW 520 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 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1994 BMW 520. (148 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1994 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 BMW 520 weights approximately 99 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 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1994 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 66 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1494 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1400 mm |
