2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine.
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 Z4 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z4 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 232 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
