2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 350 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW Z4 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 2012 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda 3 | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
Make | Mazda | BMW |
Model | 3 | Z4 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 244 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4239 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1791 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2497 mm |
Fuel Consumption City | 9.3 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |