2000 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 12 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2000 BMW Z3. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 2000 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda CX-9 weights approximately 563 kg more than 2000 BMW Z3. 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, 2012 Mazda CX-9, 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, 2012 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW Z3. (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW Z3 | 2012 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z3 | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1963 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 5085 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1935 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1727 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 76 L |
