2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1991 Renault Clio
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Renault Clio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Renault Clio 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 24 more horse power than 1991 Renault Clio. (80 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1991 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 266 kg more than 1991 Renault Clio. 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, 1991 Renault Clio, 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 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Renault Clio. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Renault Clio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1991 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Clio |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 11.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2470 mm |
