1974 Renault 12 vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA

To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (165 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA weights approximately 232 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA 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 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12, 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, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.

Compare all specifications:

1974 Renault 12 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
Make Renault Mazda
Model 12 MX-5 MIATA
Year Released 1974 2013
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1289 cc 1999 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 53 HP 165 HP
Engine RPM 5250 RPM 7000 RPM
Torque 96 Nm 190 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed manual
Vehicle Weight 950 kg 1182 kg
Vehicle Length 4410 mm 4032 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1255 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2330 mm


 

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