2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1971 Renault 15
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 15. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 15 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (142 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1971 Renault 15. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 15. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 651 kg more than 1971 Renault 15. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 15. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 15.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1971 Renault 15 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 15 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 38 L |
