2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2002 BMW Z3. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW Z3. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | RX-8 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 210 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 | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 51 L |
