2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1992 Renault 21
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1992 Renault 21. (91 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1992 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1992 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, 1992 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 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Renault 21. (138 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1992 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2820 mm |
