2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1989 Renault 21
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1989 Renault 21. (92 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 39 kg more than 1989 Renault 21. 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, 1989 Renault 21, 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 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 21. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 21. 2009 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1989 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1989 Renault 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1989 Renault 21 | |
Make | Mazda | Renault |
Model | RX-8 | 21 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1721 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 92 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 135 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1086 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |