2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2007 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW Z4 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW Z4 weights approximately 158 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 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 BMW Z4 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2007 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2007 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2007 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 5.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
