1999 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Mazda 5
To start off, 2012 Mazda 5 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 5. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 5 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1999 BMW Z3.
Because 1999 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 1999 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 5, 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, 1999 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 5. (191 Nm). This means 1999 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW Z3 | 2012 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z3 | 5 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2751 mm |
