1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 138 kg more than 1971 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Renault 12, 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1971 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mazda | Renault |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 12 |
Year Released | 1999 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 134 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.5:1 |
Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 138 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1038 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 56 L |