2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Renault Megane
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1999 Renault Megane. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 5 kg more than 1999 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 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, 1999 Renault Megane (191 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (160 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Renault Megane 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 | 1999 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Megane |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2480 mm |
