2008 Mazda 5 vs. 2006 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 Mazda 5 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 5. (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 5 weights approximately 285 kg more than 2006 BMW Z4.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Mazda 5 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW Z4. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW Z4. 2006 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 5 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 5 | 2006 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 5 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.7:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.4 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.3 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
