2008 BMW X3 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 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 (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 395 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 (246 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | X3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 61 L |
