2009 BMW M3 vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 2010 Mazda RX-8. (212 HP @ 7500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 91 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda RX-8. 2010 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |
