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 2,489 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 6. (139 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 60 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 (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 56 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.
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 | 1998 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 51 L |
