2002 Mazda 2 vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 Mazda 2 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 2. (73 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 280 kg more than 2002 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 2, 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 2. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 2 | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 2 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.1 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 51 L |
