1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 32 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
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 Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 61 L |
