2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2005 Renault Megane
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2005 Renault Megane. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 108 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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 2005 Renault Megane. (148 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Renault Megane. 2005 Renault Megane has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Renault Megane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2005 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | Megane |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
