1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2000 Mazda 626
To start off, 2000 Mazda 626 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2000 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 485 kg more than 2000 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, 2000 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 (180 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda 626. (152 Nm). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2000 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z3 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 152 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
