2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1989 Renault 4
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (104 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1989 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 421 kg more than 1989 Renault 4. 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, 1989 Renault 4, 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 (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1989 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 4 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
