2000 BMW Z3 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2000 BMW Z3 is newer by 22 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 2,489 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z3 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2000 BMW Z3 (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2000 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW Z3 | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z3 | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2489 cc | 1963 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 65 L |
