2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1980 Renault 5
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Renault 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1980 Renault 5. (158 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 5.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1980 Renault 5 (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1980 Renault 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1980 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | 5 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 51 L |
