2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1999 Renault Megane
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1999 Renault Megane. (104 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Renault Megane weights approximately 113 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
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, 1999 Renault Megane, 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 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Renault Megane. (152 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1999 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | Megane |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 38 L |
