1990 BMW Z1 vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW Z1 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW Z1 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 1990 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3, 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, 1990 BMW Z1 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1990 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3. 2003 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW Z1 | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z1 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2850 mm |
