2004 BMW Z4 vs. 2009 BMW 523
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 5 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 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW Z4 (225 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2009 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 BMW Z4 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW Z4 | 2009 BMW 523 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | 523 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
