2000 BMW Z3 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 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, 2000 BMW Z3 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z3 weights approximately 89 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2000 BMW Z3 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2000 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2000 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW Z3 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
