1971 BMW 3 vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
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, 1971 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 3 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2615 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 61 L |