2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1977 Renault 4
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1977 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1977 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 768 kg more than 1977 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Renault 4, 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Renault 4. (58 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1977 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | 4 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 845 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 58 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 58 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| 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 | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 38 L |
