2008 BMW X3 vs. 2004 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 189 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 373 kg more than 2004 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 X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda RX-8. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2004 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | X3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 61 L |
