2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1988 Renault 25
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 25. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 25 would be higher. At 2,458 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Renault 25 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1988 Renault 25. (180 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 25. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Renault 25 weights approximately 225 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
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 25, 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, 1988 Renault 25 (280 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1988 Renault 25 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1988 Renault 25 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | 25 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1307 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 280 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 |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
