1997 BMW S3 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | S3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
