Renault R8

vs

Renault Twingo RS

France vs France — 1965 vs 2008

Renault R8 (1965)
Renault Twingo RS (2008)
Specifications
R8 Gordini 1300Twingo RS Gordini 133 Cup
Horsepower103 hp133 hp
Torque86 lb-ft118 lb-ft
Engine Size1,255 cc1,598 cc
0-60 mph10.5 sec8.7 sec
Top Speed112 mph125 mph
¼ Mile17.5 sec16.5 sec
Weight1,819 lbs2,315 lbs
Wheelbase2,270 mm2,367 mm
Length3,990 mm3,604 mm
Units Produced11,607
Value (Excellent)$70,000$15,000
Collectibility8/105/10
Rarity7/106/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 2008 Renault Twingo RS Gordini 133 Cup with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1965 Renault R8 Gordini 1300 offers lighter weight, stronger collectibility, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

Renault has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1965 Renault R8 Gordini 1300 with the 2008 Renault Twingo RS Gordini 133 Cup highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 2008 Renault Twingo RS Gordini 133 Cup holds a clear advantage in raw power with 133 hp compared to 103 hp, a 30-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 Twingo RS relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V with 1,598 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2008 Renault Twingo RS Gordini 133 Cup edges ahead at 8.7 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. The Renault R8 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 496 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1965 Renault R8 Gordini 1300 commands a significant premium over the 2008 Renault Twingo RS Gordini 133 Cup, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1965 Renault R8 Gordini 1300 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.