1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1989 Renault 21
To start off, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1989 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 5 kg more than 1989 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Renault 21, 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, both vehicles can yield 129 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1989 Renault 21 | |
Make | Mazda | Renault |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 21 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1721 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 75 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 129 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2550 mm |