2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1990 Renault 4
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Renault 4 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 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1990 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1990 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 727 kg more than 1990 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1990 Renault 4, 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 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1990 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | 4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
