2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 247 kg more than 1971 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Renault 12, 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1971 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 12 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 56 L |
