1987 BMW Z1 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1987 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1987 BMW Z1. 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, 1987 BMW Z1 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1987 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW Z1 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z1 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
