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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2008 BMW Z4. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW Z4.
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 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (250 Nm @ 2750 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 | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2261 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
