2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1984 Renault R5
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Renault R5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Renault R5 would be higher. At 1,527 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Renault R5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1984 Renault R5. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1984 Renault R5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 702 kg more than 1984 Renault R5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (220 Nm) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Renault R5. (76 Nm). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Renault R5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1984 Renault R5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | R5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1527 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 76 Nm |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 194 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 720 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
