2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster
To start off, 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster. (181 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster. 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, 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster, 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 (250 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster. (240 Nm). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster. 2008 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster has manual transmission. 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | Z4 | Cooper Roadster |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3734 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1684 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1389 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2466 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
