2006 BMW X3 vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW X3 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2006 BMW X3. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 315 kg more than 2011 BMW Z4.
Because 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 BMW Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW X3. (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
