2000 BMW Z3 vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2000 BMW Z3. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2000 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z3 weights approximately 239 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW Z3. (210 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW Z3 | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 48 L |
