2007 BMW Z4 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2007 BMW Z4 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW Z4 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, 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, 2007 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW Z4 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z4 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
