2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (232 HP @ 8500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8. 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 Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z4 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 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 Weight | 1485 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
