1973 BMW 1502 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 1502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 1502 would be higher. At 1,573 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 BMW 1502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1973 BMW 1502. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 1502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 495 kg more than 1973 BMW 1502. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 1502. (130 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 1502.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 1502 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 1502 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 61 L |
