2008 BMW 323 vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 BMW 323 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2008 BMW 323. (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 323 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2002 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, 2008 BMW 323 (230 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2615 cc |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 61 L |
