1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
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, 2009 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2260 cc |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
