2007 BMW Z4 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2007 BMW Z4.
Because 2007 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 2007 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2007 BMW Z4 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2007 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW Z4 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
