Porsche 911 Turbo S

vs

BMW Z1

Germany vs West Germany — 1995 vs 1989

Porsche 911 Turbo S (1995)
BMW Z1 (1989)
Specifications
911 Turbo S 993Z1 Drop-Down Doors
Horsepower450 hp170 hp
Torque431 lb-ft164 lb-ft
Engine Size3,600 cc2,494 cc
0-60 mph3.6 sec7.9 sec
Top Speed186 mph140 mph
¼ Mile11.6 sec16.0 sec
Weight3,307 lbs2,756 lbs
Wheelbase2,272 mm2,450 mm
Length4,245 mm3,921 mm
Units Produced1838,000
Original MSRP$150,000
Value (Excellent)$1,500,000$100,000
Collectibility10/108/10
Rarity10/107/10
The Verdict

On balance, the 1995 Porsche 911 Turbo S 993 makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1989 BMW Z1 Drop-Down Doors counters with lighter weight, better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1995 Porsche 911 Turbo S 993 for outright capability, or the 1989 BMW Z1 Drop-Down Doors for a more distinctive ownership experience.

Overview

The rivalry between Germany and West Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1995 Porsche 911 Turbo S 993 versus 1989 BMW Z1 Drop-Down Doors is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1995 Porsche 911 Turbo S 993 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 450 hp compared to 170 hp, a 280-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 911 Turbo S uses a Flat-6 SOHC Twin-Turbocharged 12V displacing 3,600 cc, while the BMW Z1 relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 2,494 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1995 Porsche 911 Turbo S 993 edges ahead at 3.6 seconds versus 7.9 seconds. The BMW Z1 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 551 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 183 units built, the 1995 Porsche 911 Turbo S 993 is considerably scarcer than the BMW Z1's 8,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1995 Porsche 911 Turbo S 993 commands a significant premium over the 1989 BMW Z1 Drop-Down Doors, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1995 Porsche 911 Turbo S 993 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.