1998 BMW 320 vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 320 (150 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (148 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 385 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 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, 1998 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (167 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 2003 Mazda Roadster has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 320 | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 320 | Roadster |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1838 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 85 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1080 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2270 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 48 L |