2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 185 kg more than 1988 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Renault 21, 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1988 Renault 21 | |
Make | Mazda | Renault |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 21 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1721 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 75 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 129 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 955 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2550 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |