2001 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 440 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW M3 | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | M3 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 124 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 502 Nm | 167 Nm |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1155 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |