2009 BMW Z4 vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2012 BMW X3. (300 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 430 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4.
Because 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (406 Nm @ 1200 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW Z4. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW Z4. 2012 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |
