2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2001 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Renault Megane 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 23 more horse power than 2001 Renault Megane. (116 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Megane weights approximately 110 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, 2001 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, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Renault Megane. (158 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2001 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Megane |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1783 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2590 mm |
