2012 BMW Z4 vs. 2004 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Pontiac Vibe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Pontiac Vibe 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 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. (122 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 385 kg more than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Pontiac Vibe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Vibe 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 Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. 2004 Pontiac Vibe 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 Pontiac Vibe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 BMW Z4 | 2004 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | Z4 | Vibe |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4242 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1791 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1285 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2497 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
