2008 Chevrolet Spark vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Chevrolet Spark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Chevrolet Spark would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 284 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. (51 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 834 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Spark, 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. (70 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. 2012 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2008 Chevrolet Spark has manual transmission. 2008 Chevrolet Spark will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Spark | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | Spark | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 3000 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 776 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 55 L |
