2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,489 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
