2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 3,248 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 351 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3248 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
