2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2006 Renault Megane

To start off, 2006 Renault Megane is newer by 5 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), 2006 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2006 Renault Megane. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2006 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Megane weights approximately 33 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, 2006 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, 2006 Renault Megane (191 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2006 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 2006 Renault Megane
Make Mazda Renault
Model MX-5 Miata Megane
Year Released 2001 2006
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 133 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5500 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 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1671 kg 1704 kg
Vehicle Length 3960 mm 4360 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 2030 mm
Vehicle Height 1230 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2270 mm 2530 mm