2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, both 2008 BMW Z4 and 2008 Mazda 3 were released in the same year (2008). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
