2012 BMW Z4 vs. 2004 BMW 325
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 325 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 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2004 BMW 325. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 42 kg more than 2004 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 BMW Z4 (406 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 325. 2004 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 BMW Z4 | 2004 BMW 325 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 406 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4239 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1791 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2497 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
