2008 BMW X3 vs. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 270 kg more than 2008 BMW X3.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 BMW X3 (305 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (230 Nm). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | X3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2000 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2270 mm |
