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 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1999 Renault Megane. (104 HP @ 5750 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. 1999 Renault Megane weights approximately 102 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, 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (160 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Renault Megane. (152 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Renault Megane.
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 | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 80.5 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 | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 38 L |
