1984 Renault R5 vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Renault R5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Renault R5 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1984 Renault R5. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1984 Renault R5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 419 kg more than 1984 Renault R5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Renault R5. (76 Nm). This means 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Renault R5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Renault R5 | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Renault | Mazda |
| Model | R5 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1527 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 76 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 720 kg | 1139 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2329 mm |
