1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2003 Mazda 6
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 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 32 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (159 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
Because 2003 Mazda 6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6. 2003 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2003 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
