2006 BMW Z4 vs. 2011 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2011 Mini Cooper is newer by 5 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 68 more horse power than 2011 Mini Cooper. (121 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2011 Mini Cooper. 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, 2011 Mini Cooper, 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 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mini Cooper. (154 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 2011 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | Z4 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3724 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1684 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2466 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
