1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1995 Mazda 626
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mazda 626 (161 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 364 kg more than 1995 Mazda 626.
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, 1995 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, 1995 Mazda 626 (217 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 1995 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1995 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z3 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
