2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1983 BMW 325
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1983 BMW 325. (171 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 293 kg more than 1983 BMW 325. 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, 1983 BMW 325 (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 1983 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1983 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | RX-8 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
