1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW Z3 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | Z3 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 191 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 78.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 83.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1420 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |