1998 BMW 318 vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 136 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2011 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
