1999 BMW Z9 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1999 BMW Z9 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 3,901 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z9 (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z9 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
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, 1999 BMW Z9 (560 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 425 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 BMW Z9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW Z9 | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z9 | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3901 cc | 1963 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2320 mm |
