2003 BMW Z4 vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW Z4 (227 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2003 BMW Z4 (291 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW Z4 | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z4 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
