2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1989 Renault 21
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Renault 21 would be higher. At 2,067 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1989 Renault 21. (106 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 338 kg more than 1989 Renault 21. 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, 1989 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 21. (159 Nm). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1989 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2067 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 82 mm |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
