France vs France — 1965 vs 2019
| R8 Gordini 1300 | Megane RS Trophy-R | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 103 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 86 lb-ft | 295 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,255 cc | 1,798 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 5.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 112 mph | 163 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 13.7 sec |
| Weight | 1,819 lbs | 2,879 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,270 mm | 2,669 mm |
| Length | 3,990 mm | 4,364 mm |
| Units Produced | 11,607 | 500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $70,000 | $110,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 9/10 |
The 2019 Renault Megane RS Trophy-R emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1965 Renault R8 Gordini 1300 counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The 1965 Renault R8 Gordini 1300 and 2019 Renault Megane RS Trophy-R share a manufacturer in Renault, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Renault brand. The 2019 Renault Megane RS Trophy-R holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 103 hp, a 197-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Renault R8 uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,255 cc, while the Renault Megane RS relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V Turbocharged with 1,798 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2019 Renault Megane RS Trophy-R edges ahead at 5.4 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. The Renault R8 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1060 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 500 units built, the 2019 Renault Megane RS Trophy-R is considerably scarcer than the Renault R8's 11,607 examples. On the collector market, the 2019 Renault Megane RS Trophy-R commands a significant premium over the 1965 Renault R8 Gordini 1300, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.