2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Megane weights approximately 148 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (225 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (130 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Megane |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 60 L |
