2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1999 Renault Megane
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Renault Megane (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 0 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1999 Renault Megane.
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, 1999 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, 1999 Renault Megane (151 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1999 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2009 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1999 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 1999 Renault Megane 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 | 1999 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | Megane |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
