2006 BMW 530 vs. 2003 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 BMW 530 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 530 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2003 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, 2006 BMW 530 (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 530 | 2003 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 530 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
