1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1981 Renault Rodeo
To start off, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault Rodeo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault Rodeo would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1981 Renault Rodeo. (35 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault Rodeo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 250 kg more than 1981 Renault Rodeo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Renault Rodeo, 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, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault Rodeo. (75 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault Rodeo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1981 Renault Rodeo | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Rodeo |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 35 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 75 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2410 mm |
