1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 268 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 BMW Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW Z3 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | Z3 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 333 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 191 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1125 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 48 L |