2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Renault Megane
To start off, 2012 Renault Megane is newer by 11 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Renault Megane (221 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Renault Megane should accelerate faster 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, 2012 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, 2012 Renault Megane (300 Nm) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (244 Nm). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Megane |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2630 mm |
