1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 BMW Z3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 435 kg more than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
Make | Mazda | BMW |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Z3 |
Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2990 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 229 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 137 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 89.6 mm |
Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1405 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2450 mm |