2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Renault Megane
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 Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2002 Renault Megane. (104 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 163 kg more than 2002 Renault Megane. 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, 2002 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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Renault Megane. (148 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | Megane |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 10.3 seconds |
| 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 | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
