1973 BMW 2004 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 2004. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 2004 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 BMW 2004 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1973 BMW 2004. (97 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 2004. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1973 BMW 2004. 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 2004. (157 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 2004.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 2004 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 2004 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |
