1988 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1988 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mazda RX-7 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (79 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 110 kg more than 1988 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1988 Mazda RX-7 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Renault Megane (192 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda RX-7 | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-7 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1461 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 192 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2690 mm |
