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BMW X3 vs Mazda MX-5 Miata RF - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (393 HP vs 181 HP), trunk space and price (50,000 $ vs 37,000 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – BMW X3 or Mazda MX-5 Miata RF?

BMW X3 vs Mazda MX-5 Miata RF: Key differences

BMW X3

  • significantly more power
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Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

  • markedly cheaper
  • slightly more efficient
  • significantly lighter
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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

X3

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is markedly cheaper – starting at 37,000 $ , while the BMW X3 costs 50,000 $ . That’s a price difference of around 12,940 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF performs slightly better – achieving 26 mpg, compared to 21 mpg for the BMW X3. That’s a difference of about 5 mpg.

MX-5 Miata RF

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the BMW X3 offers significantly more power – delivering 393 HP compared to 181 HP. That’s roughly 212 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the BMW X3 delivers significantly more torque with 428 lb-ft compared to 151 lb-ft. That’s about 277 lb-ft more.

X3

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Seats: BMW X3 offers more seats – 5 vs 2.

In terms of curb weight, Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is significantly lighter – 2,452 lbs compared to 4,176 lbs. The difference is around 1,724 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The BMW X3 stands well ahead of its rival in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $50,000
X3

BMW X3

  • Engine Type :
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All Wheel
  • Power HP : 255 - 393 HP
BMW X3
Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

Costs and Consumption

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Engine and Performance

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Dimensions and Body

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General

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BMW X3

The BMW X3 blends real-world practicality with that familiar Bavarian poise, turning everyday errands into a small celebration of good steering. Inside, it feels classy without shouting, and the ride has the calm confidence that makes you invent detours just to keep driving.

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Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

The Mazda MX-5 Miata RF stands out with its sleek retractable fastback design, offering an exhilarating open-air driving experience at the touch of a button. Its sophisticated styling and agile performance make every journey a thrill, perfectly blending everyday usability with the excitement of a classic roadster. Inside, the Miata RF maintains a driver-focused cockpit that enhances the connection between car and driver, providing an experience that's both intuitive and engaging.

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BMW X3
Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

Costs and Consumption

Price
50,000 - 64,700 $
Price
37,000 - 40,200 $
FuelEconomy City
21 mpg
FuelEconomy City
26 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
26 - 28 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
34 - 35 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
17.2 gal
Fuel tank capacity
11.9 gal

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Convertible
Seats
5
Seats
2
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
4,176 - 4,535 lbs
Curb weight
2,452 - 2,496 lbs
Trunk Volume
-
Trunk Volume
4.5 cu. ft.
Length
187.2 in.
Length
154.1 in.
Width
75.6 in.
Width
68.3 in.
Height
65 in.
Height
49 in.

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manual, Automatic
Drive Type
All Wheel
Drive Type
Rear Wheel
Power HP
255 - 393 HP
Power HP
181 HP
Torque
295 - 428 lb-ft
Torque
151 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2 - 3 L
Engine Displacement
2 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024
Brand
BMW
Brand
Mazda
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.