2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 18 would be higher. At 1,645 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 386 kg more than 1978 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Renault 18, 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (133 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1978 Renault 18 | |
Make | Mazda | Renault |
Model | RX-8 | 18 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1645 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 78 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 133 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 970 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4390 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 53 L |