2006 BMW Z4 vs. 2004 Mazda 6
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 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 6 (220 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2006 BMW Z4. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 6 weights approximately 202 kg more than 2006 BMW Z4. 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 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, 2004 Mazda 6 (257 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW Z4. (245 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 2004 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z4 | 6 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
