2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2012 Mazda 5
To start off, 2012 Mazda 5 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 5 weights approximately 278 kg more 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, 2012 Mazda 5, 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 BMW Z4 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 5. (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 5. 2012 Mazda 5 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2012 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z4 | 5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 157 HP |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1568 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
