1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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 Z3 (320 Nm) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW Z3 | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | Z3 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 124 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 167 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3995 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1245 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2329 mm |