2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1998 Renault Megane
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1998 Renault Megane. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 132 kg more than 1998 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, 1998 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 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Renault Megane. (107 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1998 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | Megane |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
