2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 213 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 BMW Z3 (300 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (225 Nm). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 51 L |
