1979 BMW 320 vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 452 more horse power than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1979 BMW 320.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 BMW 320 | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2614 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
