1998 BMW 317 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 317 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317.
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, 1998 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 317 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 1998 BMW 317 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 317 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:
1998 BMW 317 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 317 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 8200 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |