1991 Renault 21 vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1991 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1991 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1991 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mazda RX-8 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 2011 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Renault 21, 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Renault 21 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Renault | Mazda |
| Model | 21 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2703 mm |
