1995 BMW S3 vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (232 HP @ 8500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 335 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8. 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, 1995 BMW S3 (260 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm). This means 1995 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | S3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2703 mm |
