2008 BMW 323 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 BMW 323 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,494 cc, 2008 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2008 BMW 323. (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 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 361 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, 2008 BMW 323 (230 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1311 cc |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
