2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1988 Renault 19
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 19. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 19 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Renault 19 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1988 Renault 19. (91 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 19. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 129 kg more than 1988 Renault 19. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Renault 19, 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 19. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 19.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1988 Renault 19 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | 19 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 996 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 38 L |
