2006 BMW Z4 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (144 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 262 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. 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, 2004 Mazda 3, 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 (365 Nm) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (184 Nm). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1223 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
