2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Renault 18
To start off, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 18 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1980 Renault 18. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 760 kg more than 1980 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Renault 18, 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, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (230 Nm) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 18. (136 Nm). This means 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 18 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1645 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1410 mm |
