1996 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2003 Renault Clio
To start off, 2003 Renault Clio is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2003 Renault Clio. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 29 kg more than 2003 Renault Clio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 1996 Mazda MX-3 (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Clio. (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Clio. 2003 Renault Clio has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda MX-3 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda MX-3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Renault Clio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda MX-3 | 2003 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-3 | Clio |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 50 L |
