1998 Renault Laguna vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Renault Laguna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Renault Laguna would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (165 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1998 Renault Laguna. (118 HP @ 5550 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA should accelerate faster than 1998 Renault Laguna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Renault Laguna weights approximately 138 kg more than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Renault Laguna, 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, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Renault Laguna. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Renault Laguna.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Renault Laguna | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Renault | Mazda |
| Model | Laguna | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1783 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.8 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2330 mm |
