2009 BMW Z4 vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (232 HP @ 8500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4.
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 Z4 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8. 2009 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z4 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
