2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1978 Renault Siete
To start off, 2003 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault Siete. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault Siete would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2003 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1978 Renault Siete. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault Siete. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 609 kg more than 1978 Renault Siete. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Renault Siete, 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 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault Siete. (72 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault Siete.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda RX-8 | 1978 Renault Siete | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | Siete |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1037 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 72 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 816 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2540 mm |
