1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Mazda BT-50
To start off, 2012 Mazda BT-50 is newer by 15 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 179 more horse power than 2012 Mazda BT-50. (154 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda BT-50.
Because 2012 Mazda BT-50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda BT-50 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mazda BT-50 (380 Nm @ 180 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW Z3. (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda BT-50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2012 Mazda BT-50 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z3 | BT-50 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 2953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 180 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 96.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 102 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3010 mm |
