2002 BMW Z4 vs. 2004 BMW 520
To start off, 2004 BMW 520 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z4 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2004 BMW 520. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 520 weights approximately 284 kg more than 2002 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, 2002 BMW Z4 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 520. 2002 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW Z4 | 2004 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
