1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Renault Clio
To start off, 1999 Renault Clio is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1999 Renault Clio. (106 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 30 kg more than 1999 Renault Clio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 Renault Clio, 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, 1999 Renault Clio (148 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Renault Clio 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 | 1999 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Clio |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
