2004 Mazda 6 vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 6 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 6. (144 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 6 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2002 BMW Z3.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 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 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 6. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 6. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 6 | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 6 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 51 L |
