1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2003 Mazda 323
To start off, 2003 Mazda 323 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 323. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 300 kg more than 2003 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 323, 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2003 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
