1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1990 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1990 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1990 Mazda RX-7.
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, 1990 Mazda RX-7 (270 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 1990 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1990 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z3 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 75 L |
