2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 210 kg more than 2003 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Megane. (152 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | Megane |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1307 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| 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 | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
