1996 BMW 325 vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1996 BMW 325. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1996 BMW 325. 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, 1996 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 325 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 325 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1300 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 215 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |