1998 BMW 729 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 729. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 729 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 729 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 729 (181 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (157 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 729 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 729 weights approximately 770 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 729 (410 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 729 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 1998 BMW 729 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda Roadster has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 729 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 729 2003 Mazda Roadster
Make BMW Mazda
Model 729 Roadster
Year Released 1998 2003
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2926 cc 1839 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 181 HP 157 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 7000 RPM
Torque 410 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 5500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 85 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 18.0:1 10.5:1
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1830 kg 1060 kg
Vehicle Length 5130 mm 3960 mm
Vehicle Width 1870 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1240 mm
Wheelbase Size 2940 mm 2370 mm