1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1974 Renault 17
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 17. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 17 would be higher. At 1,606 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 17 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1974 Renault 17. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 17. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 17 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 17, 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, 1974 Renault 17 (136 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 17 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1974 Renault 17 | |
Make | Mazda | Renault |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 17 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1606 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 136 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1055 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |