1998 BMW 325 vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 325 weights approximately 96 kg more than 2002 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 325 (220 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 325 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 61 L |
