2008 BMW X3 vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 957 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 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 (300 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 Nm). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | X3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2104 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.5 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 48 L |
