2008 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1997 Mazda RX-7. (197 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1997 Mazda RX-7. 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda RX-7. (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW M3 | 1997 Mazda RX-7 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | M3 | RX-7 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2616 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 338 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 365 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1310 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2430 mm |