2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 105 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (245 Nm) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1974 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mazda | Renault |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 12 |
Year Released | 2001 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 99 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 96 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2450 mm |