1999 BMW Z8 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW Z8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW Z8 would be higher. At 4,939 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z8 (400 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 296 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW Z8 weights approximately 345 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW Z8 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 Z8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3, 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 Z8 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (230 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1999 BMW Z8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW Z8 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z8 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4939 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 400 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.5 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 55 L |
