1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2004 Mazda 6
To start off, 2004 Mazda 6 is newer by 6 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 2,964 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 6 (220 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 6 weights approximately 53 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3. 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, 2004 Mazda 6, 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) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 6. (260 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2004 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1513 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2680 mm |
