1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1992 Mazda 626
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 626. (165 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 18 kg more than 1992 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 1996 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 626, 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda 626. (221 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1992 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z3 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 74 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
