1985 BMW 325 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1985 BMW 325. (120 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1985 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 258 kg more than 1985 BMW 325. 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, 1985 BMW 325 (230 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1985 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW 325 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 325 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1162 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
