2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Renault 12, 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 RX-8 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12. 2008 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1978 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 138 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 110 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 56 L |
