2005 BMW X3 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2005 BMW X3. (184 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X3 weights approximately 390 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2005 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 BMW X3 (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW X3 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | X3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 61 L |
