2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 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 122 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 240 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda 3 | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
Make | Mazda | BMW |
Model | 3 | Z3 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2926 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 105 HP | 227 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 84.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 89.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |