2004 BMW Z4 vs. 2008 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2004 BMW Z4. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 274 kg more than 2004 BMW Z4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW Z4. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW Z4 | 2008 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 339 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
