2009 BMW X3 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 3 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 228 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. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 408 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 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, 2009 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, 2009 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | X3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1836 kg | 1428 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 | 11.4 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 61 L |
