2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1999 BMW Z3
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1999 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW Z3 weights approximately 202 kg more than 2006 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 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1999 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | RX-8 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 186 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 63 L |
