2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Renault Safrane
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Renault Safrane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Renault Safrane would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Renault Safrane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1997 Renault Safrane. (142 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Safrane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Safrane weights approximately 100 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, 1997 Renault Safrane, 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, 1997 Renault Safrane (200 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Renault Safrane 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 | 1997 Renault Safrane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | Safrane |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 1425 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 38 L |
