2002 BMW Z3 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 215 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW Z3 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
