2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 BMW Z3
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW Z3 weights approximately 256 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1999 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm). This means 1999 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1999 BMW Z3 | |
Make | Mazda | BMW |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Z3 |
Year Released | 2011 | 1999 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 3201 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 320 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1139 kg | 1395 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3995 mm | 4030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1245 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2329 mm | 2450 mm |