2006 BMW Z4 vs. 2012 Kia Soul
To start off, 2012 Kia Soul is newer by 6 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 25 more horse power than 2012 Kia Soul. (164 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Soul. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 107 kg more than 2012 Kia Soul. 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, 2012 Kia Soul, 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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Soul. (200 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Soul.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 2012 Kia Soul | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | Z4 | Soul |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1228 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
