1971 BMW 3 vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 40 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 3 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1300 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 215 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1341 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2703 mm |