2005 Renault Megane vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Renault Megane would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2005 Renault Megane. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Megane weights approximately 36 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Renault Megane. (152 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Renault Megane | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Renault | Mazda |
| Model | Megane | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1139 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 48 L |
