2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 4 kg more than 1996 Renault Megane. 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, 1996 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (137 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane. 1996 Renault Megane has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Renault Megane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1996 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | Megane |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
