1991 BMW M12 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M12 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2710 mm |
