1988 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 1988 Mazda RX-7. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1988 Mazda RX-7. 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Mazda RX-7 | 2011 BMW M3 | |
Make | Mazda | BMW |
Model | RX-7 | M3 |
Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 3999 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 414 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1655 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4615 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1803 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1424 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2761 mm |