2008 BMW 118 vs. 1996 Mazda RX-01
To start off, 2008 BMW 118 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-01. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-01 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-01 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-01 (217 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2008 BMW 118. (127 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 118 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-01.
Because 2008 BMW 118 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 Mazda RX-01 (220 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 118. (180 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-01 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 118. 2008 BMW 118 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda RX-01 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda RX-01 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 118 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 118 | 1996 Mazda RX-01 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 118 | RX-01 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
