2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Renault Fuego
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault Fuego. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault Fuego would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (171 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1980 Renault Fuego. (96 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault Fuego. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 400 kg more than 1980 Renault Fuego. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Renault Fuego, 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault Fuego. (134 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault Fuego.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Renault Fuego | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Fuego |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1647 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 56 L |
