1998 BMW 323 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 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 205 kg more than 2011 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, 1998 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 323 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 323 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 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 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1341 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2703 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |