2006 BMW Z4 vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 255 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW Z4 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 2006 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 2, 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, 2006 BMW Z4 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z4 | 2 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
