2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2001 BMW Z3. (229 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW Z3.
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, 2001 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | RX-8 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 2990 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 51 L |
