2006 BMW Z4 vs. 2008 Mazda 5
To start off, 2008 Mazda 5 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 5. (153 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 298 kg more than 2008 Mazda 5. 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, 2008 Mazda 5, 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 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 5. (201 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 2008 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z4 | 5 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
