2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1988 Renault Espace
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 Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault Espace would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1988 Renault Espace. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Renault Espace weights approximately 30 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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 Espace, 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault Espace. (158 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault Espace.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1988 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Espace |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 170 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 | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 68 L |
