2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2004 Renault Clio

To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Renault Clio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Renault Clio would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2004 Renault Clio. (106 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2004 Renault Clio. 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, 2004 Renault Clio, 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, 2004 Renault Clio (148 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Clio 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 2004 Renault Clio
Make Mazda Renault
Model RX-8 Clio
Year Released 2009 2004
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1308 cc 1598 cc
Engine Type dual-disk rotary in-line
Horse Power 108 HP 106 HP
Engine RPM 8200 RPM 5750 RPM
Torque 140 Nm 148 Nm
Torque RPM 5500 RPM 3750 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 10.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1125 kg 1090 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 3780 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2480 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 61 L 50 L