2012 Ford C-Max vs. 2009 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 Ford C-Max 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2012 Ford C-Max. (113 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford C-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford C-Max weights approximately 205 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford C-Max, 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, 2012 Ford C-Max (300 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW Z4. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Ford C-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW Z4. 2009 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2012 Ford C-Max has manual transmission. 2012 Ford C-Max will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Ford C-Max | 2009 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | C-Max | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1828 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1684 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2788 mm | 2500 mm |
