1996 Renault Megane vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Renault Megane (136 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Renault Megane, 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, 1996 Renault Megane (191 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Renault Megane | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Renault | Mazda |
| Model | Megane | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 48 L |
