Toyota Prius vs. BMW Z4 Review

Performance
As far as horsepower, the BMW Z4 packs quite a wallop and will knock the Toyota down a few rungs. On the flip side, remember that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums. With its very low horsepower-to-weight ratio, the BMW Z4 will knock you back into your seat when you accelerate.

Handling
The Toyota Prius's front-wheel drive layout likely gives it better traction in rain, snow or ice than the Z4; on the flip side, the Z4's rear-wheel drive layout likely provides better weight distribution. The BMW Z4 has markedly bigger tires than the Prius. Note that bigger tires can look and feel better, while narrower tires could provide better handling in deep snow. With their similar turning radiuses, the BMW Z4 and the Toyota Prius most definitely handle approximately the same into and out of tight spots.

Drivetrain
The Toyota Prius's engine is tremendously smaller than the BMW Z4's. Remember that a smaller engine usually has to work a little harder; however, smaller engines typically get better gas mileage. Torque equals pickup, and the Toyota Prius will have picked up and gone by the time the BMW Z4 finally gets moving. The BMW Z4 could learn a lesson or two from the Toyota Prius in terms of pickup.

Utility
Drivers with frequent child-duty might favor the Toyota Prius over the BMW.

Convenience
You'll indubitably have to take the BMW for a fill-up more often than the Prius because of its tank size and fuel economy.

Comfort
Taller drivers will significantly enjoy the extra head room in the Toyota Prius's front cabin compared to the BMW.

Dimensions
The BMW Z4 is a tad heavier than the Toyota Prius. Your wallet will hurt more every time you fill up the BMW Z4 than the Toyota because of its more capacious tank. The BMW Z4 and the Toyota compete for the same parking spaces. The Toyota Prius's longer wheelbase will result in a smoother, more stable ride; on the other hand, the Z4 may give a sprier feel in daily traffic.

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. It costs roughly the same to get the Toyota Prius to the dealership as the BMW Z4. The Prius will save you money at the pump compared to the BMW Z4. As far as MSRP, the BMW Z4 costs tremendously more than the Toyota Prius. The BMW will cost you a bunch of money in gasoline every year compared to the Toyota Prius. The Toyota Prius will save you a bunch of money at the pump every year compared to the BMW Z4.

Overview
The basic after-sale protection that comes with the Toyota Prius isn't quite as generous as the BMW Z4's.