2009 BMW Z4 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (212 HP @ 7500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 BMW Z4 (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z4 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
