2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2001 Renault Clio
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Renault Clio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Renault Clio would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Renault Clio (230 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Clio weights approximately 469 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Renault Clio 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 2001 Renault Clio. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (182 Nm) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Renault Clio. (105 Nm). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Renault Clio. 2001 Renault Clio has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Renault Clio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2001 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 3 | Clio |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1231 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
