2006 BMW Z4 vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 2013 Mazda 3. (155 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2013 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 182 kg more than 2013 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, 2013 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 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda 3. (200 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1303 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
