2003 BMW X3 vs. 1998 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1998 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda RX-7 (265 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1998 Mazda RX-7.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda RX-7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Mazda RX-7 (294 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1998 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | X3 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 76 L |
