2002 Mazda 6 vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 6 would be higher. Both 2002 Mazda 6 and 2012 BMW Z4 are equipped with a 1,997 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 6. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2002 Mazda 6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 6, 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 6. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 6 | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 6 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
