2001 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 375 kg more than 2009 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 (330 Nm) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (189 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 194 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2340 mm |
