2006 BMW Z4 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 189 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2006 BMW Z4.
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 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z4 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| 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 | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1420 kg |
| 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 | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
