1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1998 Renault Megane
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Renault Megane weights approximately 195 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1998 Renault Megane, 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, 1998 Renault Megane (196 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1998 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Megane |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2480 mm |
