1994 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1994 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1994 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 BMW 318 weights approximately 116 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW 318 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
