2007 BMW Z4 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
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, 2012 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 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2007 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW Z4 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
