2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane is newer by 3 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 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2004 Renault Megane. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Megane weights approximately 159 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2004 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, 2004 Renault Megane (200 Nm) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2004 Renault Megane 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 | 2004 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Megane |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1460 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2750 mm |
