2006 BMW Z4 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 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 2,492 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 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 144 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 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 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1597 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 12.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
