2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Renault Laguna
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Renault Laguna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Renault Laguna would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Renault Laguna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Renault Laguna (133 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Renault Laguna should accelerate faster 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, 2002 Renault Laguna, 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, 2002 Renault Laguna (191 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Laguna 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 2002 Renault Laguna has manual transmission. 2002 Renault Laguna 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 | 2002 Renault Laguna | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | Laguna |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2850 mm |
