2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1990 Renault 21
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Renault 21 would be higher. At 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1990 Renault 21. (175 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1990 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Renault 21 weights approximately 198 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1990 Renault 21 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Renault 21 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1990 Renault 21 (271 Nm) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (225 Nm). This means 1990 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1990 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 21 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 82 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 62 L |
