1979 BMW 725 vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1979 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1979 BMW 725.
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, both vehicles can yield 215 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 BMW 725 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 725 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2703 mm |
