2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Renault Megane. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 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 185 kg more than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2002 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 2002 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 (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2004 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Megane |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
