2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Renault 21 would be higher. At 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (125 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Renault 21 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1986 Renault 21, 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 (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (142 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1986 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 21 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2820 mm |
