1999 BMW 320 vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,951 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1999 BMW 320. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 320 weights approximately 41 kg more than 2008 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, 1999 BMW 320 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 320 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 60 L |
