VS
At a Glance
Power
386hp @ 5200
382hp @ 5800
Torque
398lb-ft @ 1900
369lb-ft @ 1800
Engine
3.0 L/183cc
3.0 L/183cc
Choosing between the BMW 4 Series and the BMW Z4 is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The BMW 4 Series delivers 386hp @ 5200 while the BMW Z4 produces 382hp @ 5800. Pricing starts at $51,200 for the 4 Series and $68,400 for the Z4. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
386hp @ 5200
382hp @ 5800
Torque (lb-ft)
398lb-ft @ 1900
369lb-ft @ 1800
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
3.0 L/183cc
3.0 L/183cc
Engine Layout
Inline
Inline
Cylinders
6
6
Fuel Type
—
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic w/OD
Automatic
Number of Gears
8
6
Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive
Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
27mpg
23mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
33mpg
29mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
15.6gal
13.7gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
188in
170.7in
Width (in)
72.9in
73.4in
Height (in)
54.6in
51.4in
Wheelbase (in)
112.2in
97.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4171lbs
3543lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
BMW 4 Series
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
4 Series
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
BMW 4 Series
Lower starting price ($51,200)
Few notable weaknesses
BMW Z4
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the 4 Series or Z4?
The 4 Series produces 386hp @ 5200 and 398lb-ft @ 1900 of torque while the Z4 delivers 382hp @ 5800 and 369lb-ft @ 1800 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the 4 Series and Z4?
The 4 Series starts from $51,200 and the Z4 from $68,400. The 4 Series is cheaper by $17,200 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the 4 Series or the Z4?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.