1999 BMW 323 vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1999 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 323 weights approximately 277 kg more than 2007 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 323 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda RX-8. 1999 BMW 323 has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 323 | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 1180 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 | 63 L | 60 L |
