2006 Mazda 6 vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 6. (134 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2006 Mazda 6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 6, 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, 2011 BMW Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 6. (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 6 | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 6 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
