2008 BMW 323 vs. 2009 BMW Z4
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2008 BMW 323. (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 323 weights approximately 128 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 BMW Z4 (250 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 323. (230 Nm). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 323. 2009 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 2009 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2497 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
