2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1990 Renault 21
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Renault 21 would be higher. At 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Renault 21 (175 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1990 Renault 21 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Renault 21 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1990 Renault 21 (271 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1990 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1990 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1990 Renault 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1990 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
