2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Renault Clio
To start off, 2003 Renault Clio is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Clio (177 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 566 kg more than 2003 Renault Clio.
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, 2003 Renault Clio, 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, 2003 Renault Clio (191 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2003 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Clio |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2490 mm |
