2006 BMW Z4 vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8. 2008 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z4 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 110 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
